Are there any controls over the use of aluminum-containing food additives?
Food additives, including aluminum-containing food additives, can only be used in retail food in Canada if they have been pre-cleared by Health Canada for use in a specific food up to a specified maximum level. For example, sea urchin roe (caviar) may contain potassium aluminum silicate up to a maximum level of 350 parts per million (ppm). Relishes on the other hand may contain this same additive at a level that is governed by Good Manufacturing Practices. To obtain pre-clearance, a scientific evaluation of the food additive for the intended use must first be conducted by Health Canada. If no concerns are identified during the evaluation, the Canadian Food and Drug Regulations may then be amended to give regulatory approval for the particular use of the food additive. Manufacturers who choose to use permitted food additives in the foods they produce must list each specific food additive along with the other ingredients on the product label.
