i- Last month Health Canada announced a proposal to remove brominated vegetable oil (BVO) as a permitted food additive. It is currently authorized for use as a density adjusting agent in flavors used in beverages containing citrus or spruce oil at a maximum level of 15 ppm as consumed. (List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Accepted Uses (Lists of Permitted Food Additives).
- The Health Canada proposal follows FDA’s proposed revocation of 21 CFR 180.30 (“Brominated vegetable oil”). Health Canada’s decision is based on the same study which prompted FDA’s action. The study, which was conducted by FDA in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), reported adverse effects in rats fed BVO at lower levels compared to previous studies.
- Although Health Canada’s assessment concluded that there was not sufficient support for the continued use of BVO as a food additive, it also did not identify an immediate health concern and it intends to allow for a 1 year transition period once the change is published.
- Comments to the proposal are due by July 30, 2024, and may be submitted to the address listed in the proposal or to food.ibr-ipr.aliments@hc-sc.gc.ca with subject line “brominated vegetable oil P-FAA-24-0.”
Health Canada Proposes to Remove Authorization for Brominated Vegetable Oil
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
