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Straits Times
3 days ago
- Health
- Straits Times
Forum: SFA adopts a science-based approach in regulating food colourings
We refer to the letter by Ang Chiew Leng, 'Look into reviewing food dyes used in Singapore' (ST, May 20). Synthetic colouring compounds allowed for use in food in Singapore must first be assessed by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) to be safe for consumption. SFA adopts a science-based risk management approach that is consistent with international standards to ensure food safety. When assessing the safety of synthetic food colourings, SFA takes reference from the assessments by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). Where JECFA assessments are not available, SFA will take into consideration relevant published scientific information such as toxicity studies as well as evaluations conducted by major developed countries. SFA reviews our food safety standards from time to time, closely monitors for new scientific evidence and engages other regulators on the impact of synthetic food colourings on human health. More information on the safety of food additives and food colourings can be found on SFA's website. Joanne Chan Sheot Harn (Associate Professor) Centre Director National Centre for Food Science Singapore Food Agency More on this Topic Forum: What readers are saying Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Straits Times
19-05-2025
- Health
- Straits Times
Forum: Look into reviewing food dyes used in Singapore
Forum: Look into reviewing food dyes used in Singapore The US Food and Drug Administration is working with the food industry to phase out the use of petroleum-based synthetic dyes in food and drinks. It announced it has plans for the industry to transition to natural alternatives and recently approved three natural food dyes – galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract, and calcium phosphate. In Europe, several food dyes are banned or come with warning labels. Will the authorities in Singapore consider reviewing the food dyes used here ? For example, what red dye is used in char siew, and what orange dye is added to coconut toppings for some pastries? While each serving may contain only a small amount, should we not be concerned about the potential effects of long-term accumulation in the body? Ang Chiew Leng More on this Topic Forum: What readers are saying Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
