Jelly cups - there are choking risks associated with the ingestion of these confectionery items
Background
There have been several instances worldwide of children and elderly people choking on soft slippery dome-shaped jellies that are designed to be consumed in one bite. Food additive law, Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, provides a definition of jelly mini-cups and contains provisions to address choking risks posed by such items. Although the definition seems straightforward, it poses several difficulties, for example what does 'firm consistence' mean and how should 'intended to be ingested in a single bite …' be interpreted? Disputes and requests for advice in this area continue to be a feature of the Government Chemist's work.
Workshop
This workshop will provide advice and guidance on the evaluation of jelly confectionery and its conformity to the Regulation definition. Delegates will be given the opportunity to witness the analysis of jelly confectionary by members of the Government Chemist team and to handle and assess such products. Delegates will also be provided with an example checklist which can be used to help in the analysis.
The workshop will be of benefit to anyone involved in the testing, production, supply or regulation/enforcement of jelly confectionery that might fall under the legal definition of jelly mini-cups.
