USDA Limits Silicon Dioxide in Organic Products

WASHINGTON The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has moved to limit the use of silicon dioxide in organic products.

Under a final rule, the substance is only permitted as a defoamer. There is an exception if "organic rice hulls are not commercially available as an adequate replacement."

The change takes effect Nov. 3, 2013 and products must be in compliance with the rule a year later, RIBUS, Inc., a maker of specialty ingredients, said.

The purpose of the rule is to reduce the amount of synthetics in organic products, according to RIBUS.

RIBUS President Steve Peirce said USDA's ruling reflects an amendment to the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances. The list identifies substances that are allowed in the production and processing of organic products sold and used in the United States, he said.