European Food Safety Authority proposing updated conditions for the use of glycerol as a food additive in specific beverage categories within the European Union.In Part B of Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, glycerol (E 422) is included in the list of authorised food additives among additives ‘other than colours and sweeteners’. The proposed amendment specifically targets products such as:
1.Slush ice beverages:Proposed maximum glycerol use level: 20.000 mg/kg
2.De-alcoholised wines:Proposed maximum glycerol use level: 3.410 mg/kg
3.Other flavoured beverage formulations:Proposed maximum glycerol use level: 3.410 mg/kg
The initiative follows increasing regulatory scrutiny surrounding glycerol use in frozen and semi-frozen beverages, particularly products marketed to children. Glycerol is commonly used in slush ice drinks to maintain texture and prevent complete freezing.
Under the proposal, EFSA evaluated the safety and technological need for glycerol in the identified food categories and established category-specific maximum use thresholds intended to ensure controlled exposure levels.Once formally adopted, the regulation is expected to enter into force on the date of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. The proposal may require beverage manufacturers and formulators to reassess existing glycerol concentrations in applicable products to ensure compliance with the revised EU specifications and permitted usage levels.
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