EU Commission publishes draft regulation banning the use of hydroxyanthracene derivatives (such as aloe extracts) in foods

Mar 31, 2020 | Regulatory

aloe vera

On March 4, the EU Commission published a draft implementing regulation to restrict the use of hydroxyanthracene derivatives in food. With this amendment, the following substances would be considered as prohibited substances in food:

  • Aloe-Emodin
  • Emodin
  • Danthron
  • Hydroxyanthracene derivative (containing aloe extracts)

At the same time, Rheum and Cassia and Rhamnus extracts in food would be placed under Community scrutiny. This means that food business operators, or any other interested parties, may at any time submit for evaluation scientific data demonstrating the safety of the substance.

The draft implementing regulation is open for feedback until 22 of April 2020 (midnight Brussels time). Stakeholders are invited to contribute with their comments. If you want to contribute, please click here.

The reason for this decision from the Commission is the result from EFSA’s scientific opinion on the possible harmful effects associated with the consumption of foods containing hydroxyanthracene derivatives and preparations thereof, for example, in food supplements. In 2017, the EFSA Panel noted proof of genotoxicity of the hydroxyanthracene-derivates aloe-emodin and emodin and danthron and that no safe intake level could be established. Based on this, the Commission plans to prohibit these substances in food.