From August 7, onward food products containing E171 food colour will be banned from entering Latvia’s market, as reported by Food and Veterinary Service (PVD).
Restrictions will come to force in accordance with regulations of the European Commission.
PVD mentions that European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has performed a repeated risk assessment. In its report for 2021 the institution mentioned that, based on all available evidence, concerns regarding genotoxicity may be valid and, considering many unclear factors, the authority concluded that titanium dioxide (E171) food additive cannot be considered harmless. This means that after August 7 food producers will not be allowed to use this food colour.
Titanium dioxide is a substance that was previously allowed to be used a colour additive for certain food products. It is often used in the production of food supplements.
To ensure a smooth transition to new restrictions, a transition period is planned.
Food products containing titanium dioxide (E171) used in accordance with regulations, which were in force before the day the new regulation comes to force, February 7, would be allowed to continue being carried to the market. However, from August 7 onward no food products containing E171 will be allowed on Latvia’s market. After this day, remaining unsold food products with this colour will be allowed to be sold only as long as their best before date.
PVD is a state institution in Latvia under the Ministry of Agriculture. This institution performs monitoring and control of food and veterinary medicine sectors in Latvia. (BNN/Business World Magazine)
