National Food Safety Agency Seizes Batch of Chocolate Containing Banned Additive
The National Food Safety Agency (INSSPA) announced yesterday, February 6, the seizure of a batch of chocolate labeled as "Dubai chocolate", which contains the E102 additive, a banned substance in Tunisia. According to a statement published on Facebook, these products, deemed "non-compliant" with national health standards, were intercepted by the regional directorate of INSSPA in Kasserine.
E102, also known as tartrazine, is a synthetic food coloring commonly used to give a yellow-orange hue. However, its use is prohibited in Tunisia due to potential health risks. International studies have linked this additive to allergic reactions, attention disorders in children, and adverse effects in sensitive individuals.
According to the same statement, the INSSPA emphasized that legal action will be taken against those responsible for marketing these products, in accordance with Tunisian food safety law. The agency reminded that any infringement in this matter exposes offenders to severe penalties, including fines or suspension of activity. The health agency has called on distributors and merchants to "immediately cease" selling this product. Meanwhile, it has urged consumers to "systematically check the ingredient list", particularly for unauthorized additives, before making any purchase.
