What are the laws related to food coloring?

Food coloring laws vary from country to country. Below are some of the regulations governing food coloring in different jurisdictions:

1. United States:

- Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Regulations: The FDA is responsible for regulating food coloring in the US.

- Color Additives: Food colorings are classified as color additives and must be approved by the FDA before they can be used in food products.

- Batch Certification: Color additives must undergo batch certification to ensure they meet safety standards before being released into the market.

- Color Additives Listing: The FDA maintains a list of approved color additives and their acceptable levels of usage.

2. European Union (EU):

- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): EFSA is the EU regulatory body that assesses the safety of food additives, including food colorings.

- Approval Process: Food colorings must be authorized for use in the EU by undergoing scientific assessment and approval by EFSA.

- E-Numbers: Authorized food colorings in the EU are assigned a unique E-number identification code, which must be indicated on food labels.

3. Australia and New Zealand:

- Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ): FSANZ regulates food standards in Australia and New Zealand.

- Approved Food Colors: FSANZ maintains a list of approved colors that can be used in food products.

- Labeling Requirements: Food colorings must be clearly labeled on food products in Australia and New Zealand, along with their E-number codes or color index numbers.

4. Codex Alimentarius:

- The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC): The CAC is an international body under the United Nations that sets food safety standards.

- Codex General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA): The GSFA provides general requirements and guidelines for food additive use, including food coloring.

- Codex Alimentarius Food Additive Lists: The CAC publishes food additive lists, which include authorized food colors and their permitted usage levels.

It's important to note that these laws and regulations can change over time. Always refer to the relevant regulatory bodies in your jurisdiction for the most up-to-date information regarding food coloring laws.