As of 1 August 2026, various regulations have been amended. Food supplements and foods for special medical purposes for infants and young children are particularly affected by the changes to the food additives ordinance.

The group of steviol glycosides has been expanded to include steviol glycosides from fermentation (E960b). In addition, celluloses – which are very widely used in the food supplement sector – have been re-evaluated. Thickeners have also been re-evaluated. Consequently, Sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, Cellulose gum (E466) and Guar gum (E412) are no longer permitted in food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children; new maximum levels apply to three further thickeners (Locust bean gum (E410), Pectins (E440) and Starch sodium octenyl succinate (E1450)); new maximum levels apply in this product group. New specifications apply to the remaining celluloses and other thickening agents. It is essential to consult with suppliers to update self-control documents.

The additives concerned may continue to be imported under the previous legislation until 31^st of July 2027 and may subsequently be supplied until stocks are depleted.

Various headings in the list of usages have been amended to ensure strict alignment with the relevant terms in the ordinance on foodstuffs for people with special dietary requirements and other regulations. A new food group (18. (18.1, 18.2, 18.3)) has also been created, covering processed foods that do not fall under categories 1–17. 18.2 covers additives for meal replacement products, whilst group 18.3 covers additives for foodstuffs specifically produced to reduce the gluten content of gluten-containing ingredients or to replace such ingredients.

Changes to the food additives ordinance