Study on Implementation of Artificial Sweetener Regulation in Indonesia and Case Study on home food industry (IRTP) in Jakarta

Abstract

Artificial Sweetener is a food additive widely used by food industries especially in beverage industry. It can improve the taste, has low calorie and has stability at heating process. The aims of this study were to evaluate the data of BPOM registered foods using artificial sweetener during 1992 – 2007 and to conduct case study on implementation of artificial sweetener by home food industry (IRTP). Results of the study on registered foods showed that there was almost no change in the categories of food using artificial sweetener, before and after establishment of the regulation on artificial sweetener (Keputusan Kepala Badan POM RI Nomor HK.00.05.5.1.4547 tahun 2004 tentang Persyaratan Penggunaan Bahan Tambahan Pangan Pemanis Buatan Dalam Produk Pangan). However, it was increasing the number of food products that used artificial sweetener, for single artificial sweetener up to 116% and for combination increased 255%. Artificial sweetener is most widely used in powdered drinks, while sugar free candy used the most combination of artificial sweetener. Results of the case study on IRTP indicate that the understanding of the respondents about Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) does not affect its implementation. The survey shows that 37,6% respondents are said to know and 52,4% knew the basic principles of food safety (GMP), but the results of observation in the field show less. Only 17% respondents got Good value, while 57% respondents got Fair value and 26% respondents got Poor value. Artificial sweetener used by 27% respondents consist of 23% using mix of sugar and artificial sweetener, and 4% using only artificial sweetener. Survey conducted in 7 chemical shops in East Jakarta and Central Jakarta showed that artificial sweetener was very easily obtained without distribution rules. The artificial sweetener that was sold freely in the market were sodium saccharin and sodium cyclamate, which were packed in sachet or bulk packaging.