The National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) opened, this Thursday (11), a process to subsidize possible measures to be adopted in the case of brands of loaves of bread with high alcohol content. The action occurs after the publication of the analysis of Brazilian Consumer Defense Association, known as Proteste, this Wednesday (10), which pointed out eight brands of bread with alcohol concentrations that “exceed acceptable consumption limits”.
Three brands that are frequently found on supermarket shelves (Visconti, Bauducco and Wickbold 5 zeros) had results that, according to Proteste, with just two slices, can appear in a breathalyzer test. Anvisa was aware of the results of the study and understands that measures should only be adopted if the agency considers them necessary.
Research shows high alcohol content in sliced bread
The study evaluated 10 brands. Only the last two brands passed all the tests to identify alcohol content: Plusvita and Pullman. However, high levels of the substance were found in breads from Visconti, Bauducco, Wickbold 5 zeros, Wickbold Sem Glúten, Wickbold Leve, Panco, Seven Boys and Wickbold.
If bread were considered beverages, six would be considered alcoholic by the legislation that determines that the maximum ethanol content is 0.5%. Visconti presented a result more than six times higher. According to Proteste, the brands should contain the warning “contains alcohol”.
- Visconti 3.37%
- Bauducco 1.17%
- Wickbold Gluten Free 0.89%
- Wickbold Light 0.52%
- Panco 0.51%
The analysis also points out that if the products Visconti, Bauducco, Wickbold 5 zeros, Wickbold Sem Glúten, Wickbold Leve, Panco, Seven Boys and Wickbold were herbal medicines, they would be subject to alcohol warning if there were legislation similar to the category. The levels exceed the permitted alcohol dose for children .
Why is there alcohol in bread?
Bread production involves the formation of ethyl alcohol, which usually evaporates in the oven. The levels found in the analysis occur because industries dilute preservatives in the substance to prevent mold and ensure the integrity of the bread, the entity argues.
“Although Brazilian legislation allows the use of some substances in food, some standards need to be reviewed to ensure that residual ethanol does not cause problems for consumers,” highlights Henrique Lian, executive director of Proteste.
The research highlights the need to seek conscious consumption. In an interview with CNN a nutritionist at the University Hospital (HU) of the University of São Paulo (USP) in Ribeirão Preto (SP), states that the population should pay attention to the ingredients contained in food: “The smaller the amount of food additives in industrialized products, the more aware we will be of what we are actually ingesting”, she states.
In addition to Anvisa, Proteste sent a letter with the test results to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply (MAPA). CNN contacted the folder and keeps the return.
The expert suggests a maximum percentage of alcohol (for example, 0.5% according to the guidelines presented in the report) and the scheduling of inspection actions regarding the levels of anti-mold preservative agents and the alcohol content, after regulation.
What the brands say
Wickbold and Seven Boys
The Wickbold Group, which owns the brand of the same name and Seven Boys, reinforces that all product recipes, as well as all areas of the company, follow safety and quality protocols, with the highest level of control, as well as complying with all current legislation, within the parameters imposed by the established standards. Since the manufacturer was not notified about the aforementioned study and the methodology used, it is not possible to comment on it. However, after having access to it and the methodology used, it will be able to provide any clarifications that are necessary, confirming the legacy of ethics, transparency and respect for people that it has maintained for 86 years.
Bauducco and Visconti
Pandurata Alimentos, responsible for manufacturing Bauducco and Visconti products, states that it adopts strict food safety standards throughout its production process and supply chain. The company is BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standard) certified, recognized as a global reference in good practices in the food industry, and complies with all current legislation and regulations.
Prioritizing the quality of its products, Pandurata respects the Good Manufacturing Practices Standards and emphasizes that its care begins with a careful selection of suppliers extending throughout all stages of production.
Pullman and Plusvita
Grupo Bimbo, owner of the Pullman and Plusvita bread brands in Brazil, clarifies and guarantees that it does not use alcohol to preserve its recipes. The company reinforces that it remains committed to good manufacturing practices and has been a pioneer in the use of pasteurization for years, which maintains the nutritional quality and safety of food for all its consumers.
A CNN contacted Panco and is awaiting a response.
Source: CNN Brasil
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