Commission regulation regarding additives to tuna meant for human consumption
On 10 October 2022, the European Commission adopted Regulation (EU) 2022/1923, re-authorizing the use of ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, and calcium ascorbate—compounds of Vitamin C—as additives for tuna products.
An investigation by the EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS) re-evaluated these substances, concluding no safety concerns from their use.
Specifically, the EFSA Panel found no genotoxicity, chronic toxicity, or developmental side effects, short- or long-term, from exposure to these additives.
The ANS Panel found this lack of adverse effects in animal studies; no human studies were determined necessary, and no maximum level was established. Both the ANS Panel and the Commission determine that there is little to no safety concern for humans.
Ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, and calcium ascorbate in tuna are used to restore the colour of fresh catch and fraudulently marketed as such, which is deemed to mislead and potentially jeopardize consumer health.
