APEDA Amends NPOP 8th Edition Food Additives List

A change to Annex 3(17) of Chapter 3 of the National Program for Organic Production (NPOP) 8th Edition has been announced by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). The revised provisions also came into effect from 18 May 2026. 

The amendment also updates the list of food additives, carriers, and processing aids permitted for use in processed organic food products. The revised annexure also includes approved additives such as calcium carbonate, citric acid, lactic acid, lecithin, pectin, carrageenan, guar gum, beeswax, erythritol, and several other substances used in plant- and animal-based organic products. 

This notification also specifies certain conditions for the usage of certain additives. For example, some additives are permitted only if sourced from organic production, while others are restricted to some specific applications such as glazing agents, antioxidants, encapsulation materials, or acidity regulators. 

APEDA clarified that the approved additives list is dynamic and may be revised further in line with amendments to the Food Safety and Standards Regulations (FSSR) or changes in the organic regulations of importing countries.