Is the indication "Without colorants" permitted for raw cured meats?

Go back

Nov 23, 2017 - Foods

Is the indication "Without colorants" permitted for raw cured meats?

The decision of the ALTS at its 79th session regarding the question of whether the claim "without colorants" in uncured meat products is a self-evident advertising claim was as follows:

According to Annex II, Part E, Category 8.3.1 "Non-heat-treated meat products" of Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 (Additives Regulation), the use of colorants in the production of uncured meat products is not permitted.

According to Article 7(1)(c) of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 (Food Information Regulation), information on food must not be misleading, particularly by implying that the food possesses special characteristics when in fact all comparable foods have the same characteristics. This applies especially when the presence or absence of certain ingredients and/or nutrients is specially emphasized.

The claim "without colorants" therefore does NOT meet the requirements of Article 7(1)(c) of the Food Information Regulation, as it constitutes self-evident advertising.

Our customer service representatives are happy to assist you with any questions.

Source: Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety: www.bvl.bund.de