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Food additives report from University of Southampton

6 September 2007

We have been awaiting the release of the report about food additives and their effects on children. We are now studying the report and will be unable to comment until we have done so.

We acknowledge the concerns some consumers may have regarding food additives. All additives are listed on food labels, either by name or specific code number, which enable consumers to make informed choices about the foods they buy. If the product is sold to you unpackaged without a label, the seller is expected to give you this information on request.

Parents can use this information to identify when the additives included in this study are in their child’s diet, but it should not be assumed that simply taking these additives out of a child’s diet will eliminate these symptoms. If you think you or your child has a food intolerance, we recommend you seek advice from a medical practitioner or accredited practising dietitian.

As well, we have a booklet listing all food additives.  It is available free of charge from our consumer helpline: 0800 NZFSA1 (0800 693 721) and is also available online.

Identifying Food Additives booklet

Food labelling information

The food safety status of all additives used in food made and sold in New Zealand must first be evaluated and approved by FSANZ (Food Standards Australia New Zealand) which is the agency responsible for developing standards relating to food additives.  We will be working with FSANZ to address any issues raised in the report.  

FSANZ has also recently published a book, Choosing the Right Stuff – the official shoppers’ guide to food additives and labels, kilojoules and fat content, available in all good book shops.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand [FSANZ]

UK Food Standards Authority revised advice about artificial food colours [UKFSA]

European Food Standards Authority considers UK study [EFSA]