EFSA updates guidance for novel foods

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has released an updated guidance document for novel food applications, a move that underscores its commitment to food safety and regulatory efficiency. This revised guidance reflects over 700 comments from stakeholders gathered during an extensive public consultation, ensuring comprehensive input and transparency.    

Starting February 2025, all new applications for novel foods must adhere to this updated guidance, which incorporates insights gained from years of expertise in food safety assessments. The updates aim to streamline the application process while maintaining rigorous safety standards for consumers.  

The European Commission tasked EFSA with revising the guidance to better align with the evolving EU legal framework and advancements in food research. The updated document consists of two main components: scientific guidance, detailing the necessary scientific information for applicants, and administrative guidance, which clarifies the application process.  
The scientific section outlines critical data required from applicants, including details on the novel food’s identity, production methods, composition, expected consumption, and safety data. This includes information on how the food is metabolized, its nutritional profile, and any potential allergens.    

The revisions aim to address gaps identified in previous applications, promoting higher-quality submissions. By clarifying definitions and data requirements, EFSA hopes to minimize the chances of incomplete applications, which can delay the assessment process. While the authority has a nine-month deadline to complete risk assessments, the clarity provided by the new guidelines is expected to facilitate a more efficient review process.  

The update process was highly inclusive, gathering feedback from a diverse range of stakeholders, including academia, industry representatives, consumer groups, and NGOs. This collaborative approach not only enriches the guidance but also ensures that it meets the needs of all parties involved in the novel food sector.  
In addition to the public consultation, EFSA conducted a scientific colloquium in May 2023 to discuss current trends and methodologies in food research, further enhancing the relevance of the guidance.    

The updated guidance applies to all types of novel food applications, including those derived from cell cultures.  
EFSA remains committed to minimizing animal testing, aligning with the EU's broader strategy to phase it out. Applicants are encouraged to utilize validated alternative methods wherever feasible.    

Overall, the updated EFSA guidance represents a significant step toward fostering innovation in the food industry while prioritizing consumer safety. As the landscape for novel foods continues to evolve, these guidelines will help ensure that safety assessments remain robust and effective, ultimately benefiting both consumers and producers alike.        

 

Source:

EFSA