Are we eating plastic? Glitter in candy goes viral and Anvisa issues an alert

Edible glitters must only have approved additives. Dyes, sugars and other ingredients must be included in the official list of authorized food additives. Each substance is evaluated by the agency before being released for consumption.

The agency also indicated ways to know if the product is really edible. In the statement, Anvisa says that it is essential to check the label: it must contain the name “colorant for food purposes” or “sugar for confectionery”. If terms like “PP” or “PET” appear, the product is not edible — it is just decorative.

It is important to keep an eye out for mixed products on the shelves. The regulatory agency warns that confectionery and party stores can sell edible and inedible products side by side. The recommendation is to read the list of ingredients before using in food.

Plastics should only be used for packaging and utensils. Even in these cases, the material requires prior authorization from Anvisa and undergoes chemical migration tests to ensure that it does not contaminate the food.

How to report irregular products

Anyone who finds food products for sale with ingredients not authorized for human consumption — such as the polypropylene used in some decorative glitters — can file a report with the municipal Health Surveillance. Contact channels are available on the Anvisa portal. It is also possible to file a complaint directly with the agency.