Prepare now for new additive and enzyme regulations

“All companies should check the additives and enzymes they are using (​to see if they comply with FIAP)​,” Lavigne told FoodNavigator.com. “Different national rules and derogations covering additives, enzymes and flavourings mean that it is important to check now​.”

EAS is currently carrying out a series of audits of products for companies checking that the additives they use are in line with the new legislative framework, he added.

EU official journal​

FIAP was adopted at last month’s Agriculture and Fisheries council meeting and should be published in the EU Official Journal by the end of the year, said Lavigne. The regulations will become effective one year and 20 days after the date of publication.

The package replaces all existing rules with four new regulations – one for additives, including colours and sweetners, one for enzymes, one for flavours and one for a common authorization procedure.

In simplifying and clarifying the regulatory framework for additives, together with enzymes and flavours, FIAP should reduce the authorization process from two-and-a-half years to around 18 months, according to Lavigne. “We will have a centralized EU authorization procedure with rules that are directly applicable and don’t need to be nationally transposed​,” he added.

Flavouring ingredients​

Meanwhile, Lavigne also advised companies to begin the process of checking the compliance of their flavouring ingredients with the FIAP rules. The Flavours Regulation will come into force in January 2011.

In addition to identifying approved additives, enzymes and flavours, FIAP will stipulate that all food agents should be periodically revised. Also all products containing AZO colours must carry a specific label warning.

EAS provides strategic consulting advice on European, Asian and international regulations covering food and nutritional products.