The Macau SAR Government is to promulgate a new standard regulating the use of artificial sweeteners. The rationale for development of the new standard is based on the extensive scientific evidence linking over-consumption of processed sugars to chronic diseases, a sentiment echoed by Leong Hing Teng, during a press conference on May 31st.
The draft standard specifies approved sweetener varieties, applicable food categories, maximum usage level and usage requirements. The regulation will take effect the day after its publication. Here is list of sweeteners allowed to be applied in food processing.
Artificial sweeteners with unlimited usage | ||||
Sorbitol and Sorbitol syrup | D- Mannitol | Isomaltitol | Thaumatin | Polydextrose syrup |
Maltitol and Maltitol syrup | Lactitol | Xylitol | Erythritol | Advantame |
Artificial sweeteners to be used within stated scope and usage limit | ||||
Acesulfame potassium | Aspartame | cyclamate | Calcium/Sodium/Potassium cyclamate | sucralose |
Aitame | Stevioside | Neotame | Acesulfame aspartame |
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Ung Sau Hong, a member of the Administrative Committee of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau (IACM) announced that ”We have heavy metals, preservatives, pesticide residues and other related legal regulations to be introduced. We hope to finish the drafts by the end of this year”.