The Yuka application takes a new step. From now on, users will have the possibility to directly contact manufacturers via email or on X (formerly Twitter) if a scanned product contains additives deemed controversial.
This functionality aims to strengthen consumers’ power of action in the face of substances potentially harmful to health.
A new feature
This new option was revealed on November 19, 2024 by France Inter. Julie Chapon, co-founder of the application, pointed out that public authorities are often slow to ban certain controversial substances, despite their presence in many consumer products. “Public authorities take too long to act, sometimes because of conflicts of interest. It is essential to give consumers the opportunity to act directly,” she explained. Yuka, created in 2017, now has 60 million users around the world.
Additives still too present
The application lists 55 additives, including sweeteners harmful to the intestinal microbiota, emulsifiers likely to promote cardiovascular problems, or even colorings accused of causing hyperactivity in children. When a product containing these substances is scanned, the user immediately sees a red alert. Now, with the new feature, it will be possible to click a button to send a direct message to the manufacturer, asking them to remove these ingredients from their products. Under pressure from consumers, notable changes have already been observed in the industry. Campaigns have reduced the use of nitrites in ham and lowered the sugar content in certain children’s cereals.
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