Ingredients

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Effective August 2, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has revoked its authorization of the use of brominated vegetable oil (BVO) in food due to studies showing the potential for adverse health effects to humans.

Antimicrobial processing aids (APAs) are a subgroup of antimicrobial food additives used by food processors to benefit public health. As new APA technologies emerge, food processors and retail food/foodservice companies have identified opportunities to enhance food safety and the reliability of their processes. 

Researchers recently conducted sampling and analysis of common vegetable oils from Italy and Spain, packaged in both glass and plastic bottles, to determine the presence of microplastics. Microplastics were found in every sample tested, regardless of packaging.

Researchers from Tulane University assessed the levels and risks of toxic metals in chocolates sold in the U.S., made from beans originating from different global regions.

The EU Heads of Food Safety Agencies (HoA) recently published a list of 117 substances that should be prohibited or restricted in food supplements to protect public health.

So far, 12 severe cases of illness, including seizures, have been linked to the consumption of Diamond Shruumz brand mushroom-based chocolates and candies. The products are marketed as way to “microdose” (implying a drug-like effect), but also claim not to contain psychedelic substances.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set new safe daily intake levels for iron, which can help inform risk managers involved in the production of iron supplements and iron-fortified food products.

The National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF) will hold a virtual public meeting on June 24 to provide updates on its charges from USDA and FDA regarding genomics and Cronobacter in powdered infant formula, respectively.

The Peanut and Tree Nut Processors Association (PTNPA) Operations and Technical Food Safety Forum will be held June 25–26, 2024; preceded by the PTNPA D.C. Fly-In on May 20–22, 2024.

As part of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) continued efforts to more systematically and transparently review and regulate food additives, the agency has reassessed and revoked the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) determination for tara flour. The ingredient is not authorized for use in food.