Possible news article:UK food watchdog bans use of controversial food colouringThe Food Standards Agency (FSA) has announced a ban on the use of carmoisine, a synthetic red food colouring, in all food and drinks sold in the UK from next year. The move follows a safety review that found evidence of potential health harms linked to the additive, including hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions in some people.Carmoisine, also known as E122, is used to give a deep reddish hue to a wide range of products, such as soft drinks, sweets, bakery goods, sauces, and desserts. It is one of six food colours currently authorised for use in the EU, but its safety has been a matter of concern for several years due to its chemical structure and effects on the body.The FSA's risk assessment of carmoisine, based on the latest scientific evidence, concluded that the additive may increase hyperactivity in some children, especially those with ADHD or who consume large amounts of E-numbers. The agency also found that carmoisine can cause allergic reactions in people with sensitivities to aspirin or salicylates, substances that occur naturally in some foods and drugs.The ban, which will come into effect in July 2022, means that no food or drink products containing carmoisine can be legally sold or produced in the UK, including those imported from other countries. The FSA said that businesses should start reformulating their products now and seek alternative natural or synthetic colours that are approved for use in the EU. The agency added that consumers should not worry about the safety of products they have already bought, as the risk of harm from carmoisine was low and the ban was a precautionary measure.The decision to ban carmoisine has been welcomed by health campaigners, who argued that the additive was unnecessary and risky. Action on Additives, a group of doctors, scientists, and consumer advocates, has been calling for a ban on carmoisine and other artificial food colours for several years, citing evidence that they can cause a range of health problems, from behavioural issues to cancer. The group said that the FSA's decision was a step towards a better food system that prioritises health over profits.However, the ban has been criticised by some food industry representatives, who said that it would create new challenges for manufacturers and could lead to higher costs for consumers. The Food and Drink Federation (FDF), which represents UK food and drink manufacturers, said that carmoisine was an important colouring agent that helped to meet consumer demand for attractive and tasty products, and that its use had been approved by regulators around the world. The FDF called for a wider review of EU food additive regulations and an assessment of the impact of the carmoisine ban on the industry.Carmoisine is produced by a few chemical companies, such as {company name}, which supplies it to food companies in the UK and other countries. The company, which has been operating for over 30 years, markets carmoisine as a safe and reliable colouring agent that enhances the visual appeal of food and drink products. The company's website features a description of carmoisine's properties, applications, and certifications, as well as testimonials from satisfied customers.{Company name} is now facing a significant challenge to its business, as the carmoisine ban will eliminate its main source of revenue and force it to seek alternative products or markets. The company's CEO, James Smith, expressed disappointment at the FSA's decision and the lack of consultation with stakeholders. He said that carmoisine had been extensively tested and approved by regulatory bodies around the world, and that the evidence of harm was weak and inconclusive."We believe that carmoisine is a safe and effective food colouring that has been used by food producers for decades, without any reported adverse effects," Smith said. "We are concerned about the impact of the ban on our industry and on consumer choice, as natural colours are often more expensive and less stable than synthetic ones. We hope that the FSA will reconsider its decision and work with us to find a more balanced solution that takes into account the benefits and risks of food additives."The carmoisine ban is part of a wider trend towards more restrictive food regulations in the UK and Europe, as consumers become more aware of the link between food and health, and demand more transparency and accountability from food companies and regulators. The FSA has pledged to continue monitoring the safety of all food additives and to take action if necessary, to protect public health and confidence.
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