Scientific Opinion on Flavouring Group Evaluation 99 Revision 1 (FGE.99Rev1): Consideration of furanone derivatives evaluated by the JECFA (63rd, 65th and 69th meetings)

Abstract

Abstract The Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes, Flavourings and Processing Aids (CEF) of the European Food Safety Authority was requested to consider evaluations of flavouring substances assessed since 2000 by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (the JECFA), and to decide whether further evaluation is necessary, as laid down in Commission Regulation (EC) No 1565/2000. The substances were evaluated through a stepwise approach that integrates information on structure‐activity relationships, intake from current uses, toxicological threshold of concern, and available data on metabolism and toxicity. The present consideration concerns a group of six furanone derivatives evaluated by the JECFA at their 63rd, 65th and 69th meetings. This revision of FGE.99 includes the assessment of the 2,5‐dimethyl‐4‐methoxyfuran‐3(2H)‐one [FL‐no: 13.089] cleared for genotoxicity concern compared to the previous version. The Panel concluded that none of the six substances gives rise to safety concerns at the levels of dietary intake, estimated on the basis of the MSDI approach [FL‐nos: 13.010, 13.084, 13.085, 13.089, 13.099 and 13.176]. The specifications of the materials of commerce have also been considered and are adequate for all candidate substances in this FGE. However, for all substances use levels are required to calculate the mTAMDIs in order to identify those flavouring substances that need more refined exposure assessment and to finalise the evaluation.

Keywords

• furanone derivatives
• flavourings
• food safety
• JECFA
• 63rd meeting
• 65th meeting