Category: European regulations

The European Union has enforced strict regulations regarding Red Dye No. 3, also known as erythrosine, effectively banning its use in most food products since 1994. This long-standing prohibition contrasts with other regions, including the U.S., which only recently moved to enact its own ban. The decision highlights the EU's precautionary approach to consumer health and food safety.

Over 19 sweeteners are currently authorized for use in the European Union by the European Food Safety Authority. So, what artificial sweetener do they use in Europe, and what regulations govern these food additives?

Since 1994, the European Union has heavily restricted the use of the synthetic food dye known as Red Dye 3 in the United States. If you're wondering what is red dye 3 called in Europe, the substance is identified by its chemical name Erythrosine and its E number, E127.

In 1999, the European Commission refused authorisation for stevia, citing a lack of safety data. This led to widespread confusion and a myth that the sweetener was permanently banned in Europe, but did the EU ban stevia for good? The reality is a story of evolving science and policy, resulting in the approval of purified stevia extracts as a food additive in 2011.

Contrary to widespread internet rumors, the European Union has never banned canola oil; it is widely consumed across the continent, albeit under different names and strict regulations. The misconception largely stems from the complex history of its predecessor, rapeseed oil, and the EU's distinct food safety and labeling standards.

Did you know that the small, stylized 'e' symbol on packaged foods is not a logo but a legal declaration? This mark indicates that the product complies with strict EU regulations governing the average quantity system for weights and volumes. It is one of the most misunderstood symbols on food labels, often confused with the codes for food additives, known as E-numbers.

Since 2002, the EU has progressively banned or restricted various dyes and colorants, particularly carcinogenic azo-dyes found in textiles and certain food additives. So, what dyes are banned in Europe, and what are the specific regulations governing their use in everyday products?

According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), propyl gallate (E310) is an authorized food additive in the EU. This means that contrary to some beliefs, propyl gallate is not banned in Europe, but its use is strictly regulated based on recent safety re-evaluations.

Over 320 food additives are approved for use in the European Union under rigorous safety regulations overseen by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). This system, known as the EU food additive code or E-numbers, standardises the identification of these substances across all member states to ensure consumer clarity and safety.

In Europe, ingredient labels on many food products differ significantly from those in the United States, which often leads to confusion for consumers. One of the most common points of bewilderment is what are corn syrup solids called in Europe, where the name and sourcing can vary based on EU regulations. Instead of being sourced exclusively from maize, the European versions are often derived from wheat or other starches.