Press Release: Commission adopts new labelling rules on caffeine and quinine

Consumers avoiding drinks and foods containing caffeine or quinine, will benefit from new labelling rules adopted on 18 July 2002 by the European Commission. Whilst consumption of moderate levels of both substances is unlikely to pose any health risks for most consumers, others may suffer adverse effects from these substances, in some cases even if consumed in very small quantities. The new rules will alert consumers to the presence of these substances and, in the case of caffeine, indicate where the level exceeds a certain limit. The new rules are expected to come into force by 1 July 2004.