Category: European regulation

According to a recent 2025 EU regulation, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC or E464) is explicitly confirmed as a permitted food and feed additive in Europe. Far from being banned, HPMC is considered safe for consumption and is widely used across various industries, subject to specific regulatory standards.

Contrary to persistent online rumors, the majority of common seed oils are not banned in Europe. The misconception stems from a mix of genuine regulations on specific additives, strict food safety standards, and misunderstandings about the health debate surrounding seed oils.

While the popular belief that Red 40 is banned in Europe is a myth, the synthetic dye, known as Allura Red AC (E129), is permitted but with a specific warning label regarding hyperactivity in children, which has driven the food industry towards natural alternatives. This precautionary approach gives manufacturers a powerful incentive to switch to natural pigments to appeal to health-conscious consumers and avoid the mandated labels.