59) The Delegation of Denmark introduced the paper briefly and drew particular attention to the proposed options for consideration.
60) Some delegations and the Observer of Consumers International expressed the view that particular attention should be given to colours in food in view of consumer concerns, the potential for hypersensitivity reactions and the questioning of technological justification for their use in certain cases. Some delegations further expressed their concern about the use of colours in infant formula. Other delegations pointed out that the principles included in the Preamble of the GSFA were applicable to colours as to all other additives and there was no justification to establish special or stricter criteria for colours. The Committee emphasised that in general, additives should not be used to mislead the consumers. Some delegations proposed to define basic foods as raw fresh foods.
61) After an extensive exchange of views on the recommendations, there was general support for the following options as a basis for further discussion:
1) CCFAC could develop a list of basic foods in which added colours will not be endorsed. The foods which should be regarded as basic foods should be listed with reference to the Food Categorisation System;62) Many delegations expressed their appreciation for the work done by the Delegation of Denmark. All delegations and international organisations were invited to send their comments to Denmark, in order to revise the paper in view of the above recommendations for circulation and consideration by the next session.2) CCFAC could continue to apply the same criteria for endorsing maximum use levels for colours as for other food additives.
63) The Committee noted that the Committee on Food Labelling was considering labelling related to hypersensitivity for all foods and additives, and that recommendations on this matter would be submitted to the Commission for adoption at Step 8. The CCFL was also considering the "25% rule" for additives from a general point of view.
64) The JECFA Secretariat informed the Committee that the 53rd JECFA Meeting would consider the list of substances which can cause hypersensitivity and should be declared in the labelling, and the criteria for the inclusion of such substances in the list.
