Notice of Modification to the List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents to Modify the Level of Use of Lecithin as an Emulsifying Agent in Infant Formula

Background

Health Canada’s Food Directorate received a query regarding the maximum level of use for lecithin in infant formula which led to a review of the regulatory history of this particular food additive provision.

In the course of the review, the Food Directorate found that the intended maximum level of use for lecithin in infant formula had been 0.3% as consumed, not 0.03% as consumed.  This was reflected in the English version of the initial amendments to permit this additive use as well as the consultation document supporting the regulatory amendments. However, subsequent regulatory amendments changed the maximum level of use from 0.3% to 0.03%.

Consequently, Health Canada has modified the List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents to enable the use of lecithin, in infant formula, at a level of 0.3% as consumed, effective February 13, 2015.

The purpose of this communication is to publically announce the Department's decision in this regard and to provide the appropriate contact information for any inquiries or for those wishing to submit any new scientific information relevant to the safety of this food additive.

Information Document

To obtain an electronic copy of the Notice of Modification to the List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents to Modify the Level of Use of Lecithin as an Emulsifying Agent in Infant Formula - Document Reference number: NOM/ADM-0044, please contact our publications office or send an e-mail to publications@hc-sc.gc.ca with the subject heading "hpfb BCS nom-adm-0044-eng".

Contact Information

Health Canada's Food Directorate is committed to reviewing any new scientific information on the safety in use of any food additive, including lecithin. Anyone wishing to submit new scientific information on the use of this additive or to submit any inquiries may do so in writing, by regular mail or electronically. If you wish to contact the Food Directorate electronically, please use the word "lecithin" in the subject line of your e-mail.

Bureau of Chemical Safety, Food Directorate
251 Sir Frederick Banting Driveway
Tunney's Pasture, PL: 2202C
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0L2
E-mail: bcs-bipc@hc-sc.gc.ca

Supporting Information

Food Additives