Enable the Use of Polysorbate 80 as an Emulsifying Agent

Health Canada's Food Directorate completed a premarket safety assessment of a food additive submission seeking approval for the use of polysorbate 80 as an emulsifying agent in wheat-based ready-to-eat cereals.
Polysorbate 80 is already permitted for use in Canada as an emulsifier in a number of foods, including rice-based ready-to-eat cereals.

The results of the premarket assessment support the safety of polysorbate 80 for its requested use. Consequently, Health Canada has enabled the use of polysorbate 80 described in the information document below by modifying the List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents, effective June 15, 2020.

The purpose of this communication is to publically announce the Department's decision in this regard and to provide the appropriate contact information for any inquiries or for those wishing to submit any new scientific information relevant to the safety of this food additive.