Notice of Modification to the List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents to Enable the Use of Quillaia Extract (Type 2) as an Emulsifying Agent for Oil-Based Colouring Formulations and Unstandardized Oil-Based Ingredients when Used in Certain Foods - Document Reference number: NOM/ADM-0069

Background

Health Canada's Food Directorate completed a detailed safety assessment of a food additive submission seeking approval for the use quillaia extract (Type 2) as an emulsifying agent for oil-based colouring formulations and unstandardized oil-based ingredients when used in certain foods.

Quillaia extract (type unspecified) is already permitted for use in Canada. The List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Generally Accepted Uses includes a provision for its use as a foaming agent in beverage bases, beverage mixes and soft drinks at a level of use consistent with good manufacturing practice (GMP). There is also a separate provision for the use of saponins in these same foods for the same purpose and at the same level of use.

The results of Health Canada’s evaluation of available scientific data support the safety and efficacy of quillaia extract (Type 2) when used as requested by the petitioner.  Therefore, Health Canada has modified the List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents, effective March 4, 2016.

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 Enable the Use of Quillaia Extract (Type 2) as an Emulsifying Agent for Oil-Based Colouring Formulations and Unstandardized Oil-Based Ingredients when Used in Certain Foods - Document Reference number: NOM/ADM-0069, please contact our publications office or send an e-mail to publications@hc-sc.gc.ca with the subject heading "hpfb BCS nom-adm-0069-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 quillaia extract (Type 2). Anyone wishing to submit new scientific information on the use of this food 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 words “quillaia extract (Type 2)" in the subject line of your e-mail.

Bureau of Chemical Safety, Food Directorate

Supporting Information

Food Additives