FSA launches guidelines on edible glitters over misleading marketing fears

FSA has declared that only glitters and dusts labelled as ‘edible’ should be applied to food for human consumption.

‘Non-toxic’ decorations, not intended for consumption, must be labelled ‘for food contact’ to show they must not be eaten.

Misleading marketing​

The guidelines were introduced following misleading marketing of glitters and dust that are intended for decorative purposes only.

“The Agency is aware that non-edible cake decorating materials, described as dusts or glitters, are being marketed in ways that could be misleading.”​

“These include products only labelled as ‘non-toxic’, without stating they are not to be consumed,”​ said FSA.

The guidelines​

The guidelines stipulate that ‘edible’ dusts and glitters must only include permitted additives, such as mica and titanium dioxide.

These decorations should include the name or E-number of any additive used and must carry the statement “For Food”.​

Non-toxic and inedible glitters and dusts that do not exceed legal limits for migration into food can only be applied as decoration and are not for consumption. They must be labelled “For Food Contact”​ to show they must not be eaten.

Decorations that exceed legal limits for migration into food should not come into contact with cakes or other foods under any circumstances.

The full guidelines are available on FSA’s website.