Similarly to the previous call for data on sorbates, the European Commission has launched a new Call for scientific and technical data on the permitted food additives sulphur dioxide (E 220), sodium sulphite (E 221), sodium bisulphite (E 222), sodium metabisulphite (E 223), potassium metabisulphite (E 224), calcium sulphite (E 226), calcium bisulphite (E 227) and potassium bisulphite (E 228).The call has been launched following EFSA’s Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of sulfur dioxide (E 220), sodium sulfite (E 221), sodium bisulfite (E 222), sodium metabisulfite (E 223), potassium metabisulfite (E 224), calcium sulfite (E 226), calcium bisulfite (E 227) and potassium bisulfite (E 228) as food additives.The scientific and technical data required are the following:
- Data on absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) for all the sulphites, including identification of their forms and reaction products, when they are used to treat beverages and solid foods.
- Data on the mode of action of sulphur dioxide-sulphites (E 220-228).
- Data on the lowest achievable limits for the impurities of toxic elements (lead, mercury and arsenic) for sulphur dioxide–sulphites (E 220-228).
- Data relevant for addressing the estimated exceedance of the ADI of sulphur dioxide-sulphites (E 220-228).
The procedure of the call for data is divided into two phases:
- Step 1: Registration of the contact details of business operators interested in submitting data. Deadline: 10 November 2016.
- Step 2: Confirmation of data submission, deadlines and milestones. Deadline: 10 April 2017.
For further information, please contact us at inc@nutfruit.org.