CAC Adopts Proposed Amendments to the Use of Food Additives

On the 47th session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) held from November 25 to 30, 2024, CAC adopted the addition of Jagua blue as well as provisions regarding the use of colors and sweeteners in multiple food categories (jam, jellies and marmalades, etc.).

It is noteworthy that Jagua blue is the first ever acid stable natural blue food colorant approved by CAC. This substance is deemed as a “holy grail” in the food industry, which is derived from the fruit of the jagua (Genipa americana) tree and was developed in Colombia where the jagua fruit was produced in collaboration with small farmers and indigenous communities. Jagua blue is now assigned with the international numbering system number of INS 183, and is added to the Codex General Standard for Food Additives. This represents the global recognition of the blue colorant as safe for consumption, and consequently opens global markets for the product.