Category: European union law

In 2011, the European Union first authorized the use of steviol glycosides, derived from the stevia plant, as an official food additive after a comprehensive safety review. This decision ended years of regulatory uncertainty regarding whether stevia is allowed in Europe, making a purified form of the natural, zero-calorie sweetener legally available across the bloc.

While Italy has been considered a largely GMO-free nation for years, new laws and changing EU regulations are creating a more complex picture. The country maintains strict bans on the cultivation of most genetically modified (GM) crops, but the situation is more nuanced when it comes to imports, new genetic technologies, and synthetic foods. This guide explains the current legal landscape and how Italy's position on bioengineered food is evolving.

Yes, mono- and diglycerides (E471) are legally allowed in Europe, but a significant update in July 2023 introduced much stricter regulations for their use. These regulations, enforced by the European Commission based on scientific advice from EFSA, focus on minimizing contaminants and ensuring consumer safety. This means that while the additive is permitted, its manufacturing and purity are under tight control.

Before joining the European Union in 1994, Sweden had indeed banned Allura Red, also known as E129. However, Sweden's adoption of EU-wide food additive regulations means the dye is now permitted, albeit with specific restrictions. The change highlights a significant shift in the country's food safety standards due to its integration into the EU market.