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13.02.2020 - Foods

Labeling of Ice Cream in the Ice Cream Parlor (2nd Edition)

Labeling errors in ice cream often lead to objections by food surveillance. In our second issue, we report on the declaration of allergens and additives.

Requirements for labeling allergens and additives

The declaration of additives and allergens is mandatory.

Regarding the use of additives, the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 (Regulation on food additives) must be observed. The purposes of use and maximum amounts specified in this regulation must be adhered to.

In labeling additives, the requirements of the additive approval regulation must be considered. For example, the addition of colorants and preservatives must be made recognizable by the statement "with colorant" or "with preservative".

The statements must be clearly visible, in easily readable font, and indelible on a sign on or next to the ice cream.

However, colorants that "indirectly" enter the ice cream via an ingredient colored with a colorant (e.g., Amarena sauce) must also be declared. When using azo dyes and quinoline yellow (see Annex V of Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008), the note "May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children" must also be indicated.

Alternatively, the declaration of additives can also be made in a notice or in a written record that is immediately accessible to the end consumer.

However, it should be noted that in a written record, all additives used in the manufacture of the ice cream (e.g., emulsifiers) must be listed.

The identification of additives is made by indicating the class name, followed by the specific designation or the E-number. Furthermore, reference should be made to the written record at the ice cream or in a notice.

Regarding the labeling of allergenic ingredients, the requirements of the Food Information Regulation and the Food Information Implementation Regulation must be observed.

The information can be made available to consumers in writing, electronically, or orally. The statements can, for example, be made on or near the ice cream or via a notice at the point of sale.

In the case of an oral statement, it must be clearly legible and conspicuous on the food or a notice, indicating that allergen information is provided orally and a written record is accessible upon request.

The allergenic ingredients must be listed precisely and completely. For instance, declaring "gluten-containing grains" is NOT sufficient; the ingredient wheat must be specified.

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