Eat Two slices of sliced bread may be enough to fail a breathalyzer test. This is the result of the analysis by the Brazilian Consumer Defense Association, known as Proteste.
Three brands frequently found on supermarket shelves (Visconti, Bauducco and Wickbold 5 zeros) had results that, according to Proteste, could appear in a breathalyzer test.
In addition to these, the analysis evaluated the brands Wickbold Gluten Free, Wickbold Light, Panco, Seven Boys, Wickbold, Plusvita and Pullman. Only the last two brands passed all the alcohol content identification tests.
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, brands should include 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.
Proteste sent a letter with the test results to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA) and the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa).
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. CNN contacted the authorities and is awaiting a response.
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.
A CNN contacted Panco and is awaiting a response. Bimbo, which is responsible for Pullman and Plusvita, approved brands, preferred not to comment.
Source: CNN Brasil
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