Florida Violation V26: Approved additives

High PrioritySeverity
Food SafetyCategory
0Citations (12 mo)
Codes 01–28Classification

Under Florida's food safety regulations, V26 (Approved additives) is a high priority violation addressing Food Safety standards.

Reference: 61C-4.010, FDA Food Code 3-302.14

What the Code Says

V26 — Approved additives

Unapproved additives or sulfites on raw produce

— Florida Administrative Code 61C-4, FDA Food Code

Why This Matters

CHEMICAL HAZARD: Unapproved food additives or sulfites on raw produce create direct health risks. Sulfites on raw fruits/vegetables cause severe asthmatic reactions in 5-10% of asthmatics — potentially fatal bronchospasm. Unapproved color additives may be carcinogenic. Unapproved preservatives can cause acute toxicity. FDA prohibits sulfites on raw produce since 1986.

CDC Risk Factor Classification: Food from Unsafe Sources - Chemical Additive Hazard

The CDC identifies five major contributing factors to foodborne illness outbreaks: food from unsafe sources, inadequate cooking, improper holding temperatures, contaminated equipment, and poor personal hygiene. Source: CDC Contributing Factors

Real-World Impact

In 2018, the FDA issued a warning after a restaurant was found using an industrial-grade sulfite preservative not approved for food use on fresh-cut produce. Several customers experienced severe asthmatic reactions. Only food-grade additives and chemicals approved by the FDA may be used in food preparation.

Source: FDA — Food Additive Status List

Code Requirements

Do not use any food additives not approved by FDA. Do not apply sulfiting agents to raw fruits or vegetables intended for raw consumption. Verify all additives are FDA-approved and used within permitted levels. Maintain documentation of all additives used. Train staff on approved additive use.

References

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Florida food safety violation V26?
Unapproved additives or sulfites on raw produce This is classified as a high priority violation under the Food Safety category.
Why is violation V26 (Approved additives) dangerous?
CHEMICAL HAZARD: Unapproved food additives or sulfites on raw produce create direct health risks. Sulfites on raw fruits/vegetables cause severe asthmatic reactions in 5-10% of asthmatics — potentially fatal bronchospasm. Unapproved color additives may be carcinogenic. Unapproved preservatives can...
What CDC risk factor does this violation fall under?
This violation is classified under: Food from Unsafe Sources - Chemical Additive Hazard.

Data source: Florida DBPR public inspection records. Health risk information sourced from CDC, FDA Food Code, and peer-reviewed research. How we collect and verify this data.