MEPs Seek Ban on Additive E 425 Konjac

The EP adopted a report from Marit Paulsen (ELDR, Sweden) proposing a ban on the use of the food additive E425 konjac in jelly products, consumed primarily by children. This first-reading Opinion (adopted under the co-decision procedure) is in line with the European Commission’s draft amendment to Directive 95/2, aiming to introduce a permanent ban on this food additive.

This initiative follows reports that consumption of minicups containing the additive pose a risk of death by choking, particularly to children and old people. The Parliament amended the proposal to bring forward the ban to six months after the Directive enters into force.