The Interprofessional Association of Lemon and Grapefruit of Spain (Ailimpo) presented a proposal to the European Union so that the organic food industry stops using citric acid (E-330) and replaces it with organic lemon juice, a totally effective and natural alternative. Ailimpo made this proposal in the framework of the consultation period that the European Commission has opened on the Draft Implementing Regulation by which certain products and substances are authorized for use in organic production.
"We have requested that the authorization of this substance (citric acid E-330) be eliminated as a preservative within food additives because it can be replaced with organic lemon juice, whose main component is natural citric acid. In addition, its availability would be fully guaranteed by Europe's production,” Ailimpo stated noting that Spain is a community leader in lemon production and processing.
Ailimpo favors using ethylene in organic citrus
AILIMPO also submitted an observation to be able to use ethylene. The draft regulation establishes an important limitation for its use in citrus. This substance is used so to modify the green skin color of fruit once it reaches its internal maturity so that fruit achieves the characteristic color of its species and variety. This process is called degreening.
Its use is restricted in citrus fruits as part of a strategy for the prevention of fruit flies. "However, the application of ethylene in citrus fruits does not induce their maturation, as in other fruits and vegetables. It only changes the color of the citrus skin," Ailimpo stated. The interprofessional's position is that the use of ethylene shouldn't be limited in organic citrus.
"Ailimpo's 'Welcome to the Lemon Age' campaign showcases its commitment to sustainability," they stated. The organic production of lemon and grapefruit has great relevance within their activity, hence the involvement of interprofessional in defending the interests of this sector. The organization has already expressed its position to the European organization Freshfel Europe; the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food; the CC. AA. citrus crops and the Ecological Agriculture Councils involved so that they take into account the sector's considerations and contributions in this draft Implementing Regulation.
You can consult Ailimpo's contributions to the public consultation of the regulation regarding citric acid and ethylene here.
For more information:
Ailimpo
C/ Villaleal, 3, 30001 Murcia (España)
Tel. +34 968 21 66 19
[email protected]
www.ailimpo.com