A YORK ice cream manufacturer is being used as an example to the food industry of how to avoid artificial colours in products.

Yorvale’s NAFNAC (No Artificial Flavours, No Artificial Colours) policy has been recognised by the Food Standards Agency (FSA), with the Acaster Malbis-based business one of a handful of producers to gain a Grade A against Issue 6 of the BRC Global Standard for Food Safety.

The FSA has updated its list of product ranges that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children, and includes Yorvale.

The FSA is publicising the ranges to encourage the food industry to participate in the voluntary ban agreed by ministers in November 2008.

Yorvale director Lesley Buxton said: “We’re proud to be included in this list. Since we launched Yorvale 25 years ago, we have only ever used natural flavours and colourings in our ice creams, sorbets and Yoryog frozen yoghurt.”

Since being launched 25 years ago the Yorvale business has grown to now work with stockists nationwide through selected wholesalers and from farm shops, independent retailers, visitor attractions and supermarkets throughout Yorkshire.