Valid IT: Ensuring Non-GMO Integrity in the Food Industry

Valid-IT is a database of UK Retailers Approved ingredient suppliers dedicated to minimising the risk of contamination with genetically modified (GM) ingredients or contaminated dyes in ingredients and food products. Suppliers of these products can submit requests at Valid-IT platform and undergo a stringent assessment of their systems and procedures to ensure they have the necessary measures in place to minimise the risk of contamination.

Coverage of Valid-IT

1. Non-GM Ingredients:
   
   

• Valid-IT ensures that ingredients derived from potentially GM sources are validated to be NON GM. This includes origins such as Soya, Maize, Cotton Seed, and Rapeseed Oil from non-EU sources.

1. Spice Ingredients:
   
   

• Valid-IT verifies that specified spices are free from illegal dyes and comply with the recommended levels of detection for non-permitted colors, as defined by the UK Food Standards Agency. High-risk ingredient origins currently include Soya, Maize, Cotton Seed, and Rapeseed Oil from non-EU sources. The current non-permitted dyes include a comprehensive list of substances.

Protocols for Control

1. Control of Non-GM Ingredients:
   
   

• Valid-IT is administered by Eurofins to control the risk of GM contamination of specified materials. It employs a supply chain model where all suppliers of sensitive materials, excluding growers, must be Valid-IT approved. The approval process includes an assessment of control of growers to ensure Non-GM status.
  
  

1. Control of Spice Ingredients:
   
   

• Similar to non-GM ingredients, Valid-IT is employed to control the risk of contamination of specified spices with illegal dyes. The approval process evaluates the systems in place to minimise the risk of such contamination.

Recognition Process

• The recognition process for Valid-IT involves the demonstration of a demonstrable system for the control of potentially contaminated materials, with specific requirements for certification, supplier listing, testing, renewal, and notification of any significant changes or non-conforming materials.

Valid-IT plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and compliance of ingredients used in food products, particularly in managing the risk of GM contamination and illegal dye presence. Make sure you fulfil this requirement when supplying retailers that accept this programme. To find out more, contact our team or request a Valid-IT assessment anytime!

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