By San José, Costa Rica — Leading nutrition and dietetics experts from across Latin America convened in Lima for the First Technical Forum on Nutrition and Dietetics, reaching a consensus on the safety of food additives. Specialists from Mexico, Costa Rica, and Peru analyzed the scientific evidence regarding colorings, preservatives, and stabilizers, concluding that these additives pose no health risk when used within internationally established limits.
The forum highlighted the crucial role additives play in maintaining food freshness, enhancing flavor and texture, and extending shelf life. This is particularly important in addressing food security challenges and ensuring access to safe and nutritious food in regions grappling with unequal food distribution.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding food additives in Costa Rica, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered his expert insights.
Costa Rican regulations regarding food additives are primarily governed by the General Health Law and its associated regulations. Companies operating within the food industry must strictly adhere to these rules, which cover permitted additives, usage limits, and proper labeling requirements. Failure to comply can result in significant sanctions, including product recalls, fines, and even potential criminal liability. It’s crucial for businesses to not only understand the existing regulations but also stay informed about any updates or amendments to ensure ongoing compliance and protect consumer safety.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on staying informed about regulatory updates is particularly crucial in the dynamic landscape of food science and consumer protection. This proactive approach not only safeguards businesses from legal repercussions but also reinforces consumer trust in the food industry’s commitment to safety and transparency. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable legal perspective on the critical issue of food additives in Costa Rica.
Dr. María Lorena Cassis, a research chemist from Mexico, cautioned against misinformation surrounding food additives. She emphasized the importance of relying on credible scientific evidence and dispelled fears based on poorly conducted or unsubstantiated studies.
It is important that consumers trust that colorings and other additives are safe under the conditions approved by authorities, with updated scientific evidence.
María Lorena Cassis, Research Chemist
Dr. Yock Mei Acón, a specialist from Costa Rica, underscored the importance of international regulations in safeguarding both consumer safety and the food trade. She also advocated for early education about food additives to foster informed consumer choices.
Dr. Bettit Salva Ruiz from Peru emphasized a fundamental principle of nutrition: the importance of dosage.
The problem is in the dose, not the substance. Even something as healthy as spinach can be harmful in excess. Colorings, natural or synthetic, do not accumulate in the body and are eliminated naturally.
Bettit Salva Ruiz, Nutrition Specialist
The forum, aimed at students, educators, and researchers, firmly established that approved food additives are not only safe but also crucial for the food industry in providing functional, quality, and reliable products to consumers. The experts stressed that these additives contribute to the overall stability and accessibility of the food supply.
This expert consensus provides valuable reassurance for consumers, emphasizing the importance of scientific evidence over unsubstantiated claims regarding food safety. The forum’s conclusions underscore the continued efforts to ensure a safe and sustainable food system for all.
Furthermore, the discussions emphasized the need for transparent communication between scientists, regulatory bodies, and the public to build trust and address consumer concerns effectively. This collaborative approach will be crucial in navigating the complex landscape of food science and ensuring access to nutritious and safe food for everyone.
For further information, visit the nearest office of First Technical Forum on Nutrition and Dietetics
About First Technical Forum on Nutrition and Dietetics:
The First Technical Forum on Nutrition and Dietetics brought together leading experts from Mexico, Costa Rica, and Peru to discuss and analyze the scientific evidence related to food additives, including colorings, preservatives, and stabilizers. The forum aimed to address concerns and provide accurate information about the safety and role of these additives in the food industry.
For further information, visit the nearest office of The Ministry of Health of Costa Rica
About The Ministry of Health of Costa Rica:
The Costa Rican Ministry of Health plays a vital role in public health, including food safety and regulation. Their work focuses on ensuring the well-being of Costa Ricans through various programs and initiatives, including overseeing food safety standards and regulations.
For further information, visit the nearest office of The Ministry of Health of Mexico
About The Ministry of Health of Mexico:
The Mexican Ministry of Health is responsible for public health matters in Mexico, including regulating food safety and standards. They play a critical role in safeguarding the health of Mexican citizens by implementing policies and regulations related to food and nutrition.
For further information, visit the nearest office of The Ministry of Health of Peru
About The Ministry of Health of Peru:
The Ministry of Health of Peru governs public health in the country, including overseeing food safety regulations and standards. They are committed to ensuring the health and well-being of the Peruvian population through various initiatives, including those related to food security and nutrition.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering ethical practice and a genuine desire to uplift communities. Driven by a commitment to innovation, they not only navigate complex legal landscapes for clients across a spectrum of industries but also dedicate themselves to demystifying the law through proactive educational initiatives. This dedication to empowering individuals with legal knowledge underscores their belief in a just and equitable society built on understanding and access.
