The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has issued revisions to Proposition 65 warning label requirements for acrylamide in food and beverages, as outlined in Title 27, California Code of Regulations. These changes will be effective as of January 1, 2023, and include adding a non-mandatory safe harbor warning option for businesses that may cause exposure to acrylamide in food products.
Acrylamide in California Proposition 65
Proposition 65, also known as the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, is a state law that mandates businesses to provide consumers with warnings if their products contain significant levels of chemicals that may lead to cancer, congenital disabilities, or other reproductive harm. Acrylamide is among the over 950 substances currently listed under this law.
Acrylamide in Food Products
Acrylamide is a chemical that can be produced during cooking when certain plant-based foods, such as potatoes, cereals, and nuts, are heated at high temperatures. It is commonly found in food products that have been fried, roasted, or baked. Exposure to acrylamide may increase cancer risk, potentially affecting fetal development and harming the male reproductive system.
Acrylamide Safe Harbor Warning
Aside from the existing safe harbor warning details, the new voluntary safe harbor warning option includes the following:
- The phrase “CALIFORNIA WARNING:” in bold, capital letters.
- The label should contain the statement, “Consuming this product can expose you to acrylamide, a probable human carcinogen formed in some foods during cooking or processing at high temperatures. Many factors affect your cancer risk, including the frequency and amount of the chemical consumed. For more information, including ways to reduce your exposure, see www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/acrylamide.”
Click here to see the full announcement
Will this affect your business? Contact us at HQTS at inquiry@hqts.com for any questions related to California Prop 65.
