Analysis of the Approval Process for Beverages in Sealed Containers with Food Additives

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the licensing process for beverages in sealed containers, summarize the arising problems, develop tool for resolving basic problems and develop proposal to increase the effectiveness of the approval process. Method: This study was divided into two phases. Phase one involved the collection of data on licensing of food products at pre-marketing stage, review of documents and studies on hazards and use of food additives, and summarizing the problems arising from existing policies and approval process. In the second phase of study, the researcher developed a computer program as a tool for checking types and amount of additives, and tested the tool in 25 entrepreneurs and regulators. The research evaluated users’ satisfaction with the program after using the program. Results: Government policies and the lowering of legal status of beverages in sealed containers to “food with specification of quality or standard”, in effect, shortened approving process and time. Moreover entrepreneurs needed not to submit the result of laboratory analysis of food products in applying for licenses. However it increased the responsibility for the manufacturers to check the type and quantity of the additives themselves. Most applicants in upcountry were small entrepreneurs with inadequate knowledge in calculating the amount of additives. Regulators had to help them in checking food additives, leading to the delay in granting. The program for calculating the amount of additives developed by the researcher for entrepreneurs and regulators was effective. Users were satisfied with the program at the high to very high levels in all evaluated dimensions. Conclusion: The development of a fast and effective licensing process according to current government policy needs 3 phases of resolution resolutions. Urgent measure includes the provision of tool to officials and entrepreneurs in up-country. Intermediate measure includes improving knowledge for entrepreneurs. Long-term measure includes the revision of laws and policies leading to products conforming to legal requirement on quality and standards.