The existence of acrylamide is likely to raise concerns among consumers who wish to ensure their foods and beverages are safe. Although a significant amount of this substance is required to pose a risk to human health — with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration indicating that “very high doses” have led to cancer in animals — consumers who are aware of acrylamide understandably worry about their exposure to this chemical. However, it’s important to note that the mere presence of acrylamide in a product does not automatically render it unsafe; the concentration is what truly matters. For instance, a cup of coffee analyzed by the Clean Label Project contained an average of 1.77 micrograms of acrylamide per serving, while french fries from a leading U.S. fast-food chain had a much higher level of 75.65 micrograms. Nonetheless, organizations like the American Cancer Society recommend that individuals keep their acrylamide exposure as minimal as possible.
For manufacturers, any ingredient that can potentially lower acrylamide levels without necessitating extensive recipe reformulations is likely to be welcomed. DSM claims that its enzyme solution does not alter the taste, appearance, or texture of the products it is incorporated into. Provided that the PreventASe XR product is not prohibitively expensive, many processed food brands may show interest in adopting it. While some consumers might be unaware of the risks associated with acrylamide, many would likely appreciate knowing that their food and beverages include an ingredient capable of reducing its presence. Proper labeling could offer a competitive advantage for some consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers; however, it might also backfire by alerting consumers to the potential hazards in their food.
In California, coffee already carries a warning label regarding acrylamide. Proposition 65, a law enacted by voters in 1986, mandates warning labels for approximately 900 chemicals recognized as carcinogens or teratogens — with acrylamide being a byproduct of the coffee-roasting process. In March, a judge in Los Angeles ruled that coffee shops must display warning signs, but several coffee producers, including Starbucks, Coca-Cola, Caribou Coffee, Folgers, and Keurig Green Mountain, have appealed this decision. They argue that coffee does not contain harmful levels of acrylamide, a stance that the state supported in a reversal announced in June. California’s warning label regulation is currently under review, with a public hearing scheduled for August 16 in Sacramento.
In the context of health, consumers may also want to explore the calcium citrate health benefits, as this ingredient can contribute positively to their overall well-being. As discussions around acrylamide continue, understanding the advantages of other ingredients, such as calcium citrate, could empower consumers to make informed choices about their food and beverage selections. Ultimately, balancing safety, transparency, and health benefits is vital for both consumers and manufacturers alike.