Banned Food Additives in Singapore: What You’ll Never Find in Your Food

Banned Food Additives in Singapore

Singapore enforces some of the world’s strictest food safety rules. While many additives are still approved overseas, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) bans several controversial ones to protect consumers. This means you won’t see them on supermarket shelves here. Let’s look at which additives are banned, and why.

Food Additives

1. Carmine (E120): Red from Crushed Insects

Carmine, or cochineal extract, comes from crushed insects and creates a bright red color in candies and yogurts. Although some countries still allow it, Singapore bans it because of allergy risks and ethical concerns. As a result, your strawberry yogurt in Singapore never uses insect-based dyes.

2. Shellac (E904): The Glossy Candy Coating

Shellac adds a shiny finish to candies, pills, and fruits. It comes from resin secreted by lac beetles. Since it is insect-derived, many consider it controversial. Singapore does not permit it in food products, so local sweets stay shellac-free.

3. Castoreum: Flavor from Beaver Glands

Castoreum, a natural flavor once used for its vanilla-like scent, comes from beaver scent glands. Globally, food companies rarely use it today because it is expensive and ethically questionable. Singapore’s regulations go further by banning it outright.

4. Industrial Trans Fats: A Hidden Heart Risk

Trans fats, created during hydrogenation, increase the risk of heart disease. For decades, they slipped into processed foods like margarine, pastries, and fried snacks. Singapore took strong action. Since June 2021, the use and import of partially hydrogenated oils have been banned, making the country one of the first in Asia to eliminate industrial trans fats.

What This Means for Consumers

Because of these strict rules, shoppers in Singapore avoid some of the most controversial additives. While you might encounter them abroad, you won’t find them legally in Singapore’s food supply. In addition, the SFA continues to review new evidence and update its banned list when necessary.

Final Word

Food additives may differ by country, but Singapore chooses safety and consumer protection first. By banning carmine, shellac, castoreum, and industrial trans fats, regulators ensure that your food stays free from some of the world’s most debated ingredients. As a result, you can shop with greater confidence and peace of mind.

👉 “Read also: 7 Shocking Things You Did Not Know Were in Your Food

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