As a number of brands specializing in bubble tea continue to expand both domestically and internationally, bubble tea has gradually gained popularity, with some brands even opening "bubble tea specialty stores." Tapioca pearls have always been one of the common toppings in tea drinks, and now there are new regulations for bubble tea.
Following the release of the National Food Safety Standard for the Use of Food Additives (GB2760-2024) (hereinafter referred to as the "Standard") in February 2024, the Standard has recently been officially implemented. It mentions that dehydroacetic acid and its sodium salt cannot be used in butter and concentrated butter, starch products, bread, pastries, baked food fillings and glazes, prefabricated meat products, and fruit and vegetable juices (purees). Additionally, the maximum usage limit of this food additive in pickled vegetables has been adjusted from 1g/kg to 0.3g/kg.
What are dehydroacetic acid and its sodium salt? Dehydroacetic acid and its sodium salt are widely used as broad-spectrum preservatives, known for their advantages of safety and high stability. They are not affected by acid-base conditions and are relatively stable to light and heat, effectively inhibiting the reproduction of yeasts, molds, and bacteria. Dehydroacetic acid and its sodium salt have low toxicity and are safe when used within the scope and amount specified by standards; however, long-term excessive intake can harm human health.
What is the connection between this and bubble tea? In fact, as one of the common ingredients in tea drinks, the "pearls" in bubble tea, which are starch products, will also be prohibited from using sodium dehydroacetate. Currently, there are three types of "pearl" toppings in the tea beverage market: room-temperature pearls, frozen pearls, and quick-cooking pearls, with the first two containing preservative additives. Previously, media reports have stated that some bubble tea shops failed inspections due to the presence of dehydroacetic acid in the sold tapioca pearls. The emergence of the new regulations also means that pearls produced after February 8th that contain sodium dehydroacetate may face penalties.
Similar actions may, to a certain extent, force the industry to progress. The implementation of the Standard will compel relevant enterprises to adjust the production process of tapioca pearls and seek alternatives to dehydroacetic acid and its sodium salt to ensure food safety, undoubtedly increasing production costs. At the same time, to maintain the taste and quality of the pearls, enterprises may need to invest more resources in research and development to explore new preservation technologies.
Some small enterprises or those lacking technical prowess may be unable to bear the high costs of research and development and production, forcing them to exit the market. In contrast, large brands with strong research and development capabilities and supply chain management are expected to seize this opportunity to expand their market share and further consolidate their market position, thereby accelerating industry restructuring.
As tea brands focus on upgrading health and quality, food safety has become a driving force for brand development. Although pearl products are only one component among the many ingredients in tea drinks, their quality control cannot be overlooked. Tea brands must strictly control the quality of raw materials and choose suppliers of tapioca pearls that meet standards to ensure compliance. At the same time, brands need to actively engage in research and development to find healthier and more natural preservation methods, such as using natural plant extracts for preservation. In marketing, they should emphasize the health and safety features of their products to meet consumers' pursuit of health and enhance their brand image. Additionally, brands must pay attention to strengthening employee training to familiarize them with the new regulations and product adjustments, avoiding food safety issues due to improper operations and maintaining brand reputation.
Post time: Feb-10-2025