Anvisa bans the use of some types of glitter in food and strengthens guidelines to avoid confusion between edible and decorative products
The National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) has strengthened an important alert for those who work in the confectionery sector or love decorated sweets. Powders and glitters that contain “micronized PP” (polypropylene) cannot under any circumstances be used in food. These products are only allowed in non-edible decorations, such as backdrops and party decorations, but not in cakes, sweets, drinks or desserts.
The origin of the controversy
The topic gained prominence on social media after the creator of the content Darius Centurion post videos showing products sold as “edible glitter”. In fact, they contain entirely plastic material. The case attracted the attention of Anvisa, which reiterated that any product intended to color or polish food must be made with additives and ingredients previously approved by the Agency, always on the basis of safety studies.
“No decorative powder containing the so-called ‘micronized PP’ can be present in confectionery products or for food decoration,” highlighted the body in an official note.
The risk of microplastics
Health and nutrition experts warn that the use of plastic glitter in food poses a real risk. If ingested, polypropylene can irritate the digestive tract and contribute to the accumulation of microplastics in the body, a phenomenon already studied by scientists in several countries.
According to the Brazilian Society of Nutrition, prolonged exposure to microplastics is associated with inflammatory processes and hormonal changes. Since the human body does not metabolize these particles, some of them may pass out in the feces. But another fraction tends to accumulate in tissues and organs, which worries the medical community.
In liquid drinks and desserts the danger is even greater, as the glitter easily mixes with the contents and is ingested without realizing it. Therefore nutritionists recommend special attention to products made at home or sold at fairs and events without a clear origin.
How to avoid confusion
To avoid making mistakes when choosing confectionery products, Anvisa recommends scrupulously observing the label:
- List of ingredients: all additives must be authorized for use in foods;
- Sales Name: look for terms like “food coloring” or “powdered sugar”;
- Lot and validity: mandatory data on all foods;
- Gluten Statement: presence or absence;
- Allergen warnings: when applicable.
The recommendation is clear: plastic cannot be eaten. Even in small quantities, there is no proven safety for consuming micronized plastic substances.
Strengthening supervision
To contain the risk of irregular products, Anvisa has activated the Food Risk Alert and Communication Network (Reali). The system brings together surveillance bodies from across the country and public laboratories. The objective is to monitor possible cases of contamination or irregularities in food products and act promptly to protect consumers.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
