New opportunities and challenges for novel protein authorisations
The appetite for alternative proteins as a substitute to animal proteins is increasing. This is evidently nourishing numerous developments with the innovative use and mixing of plant, algae, insect ingredients through innovative techniques, such as precision fermentation and cell differentiation. To make the research and development worthwhile it is essential to adequately grasp and manoeuvre the regulatory pathway for bringing innovative foods to the actual tables of consumers. This article outlines the legal framework applicable to alternative protein products in the European Union and USA.
Alternative proteins in the EU – regulatory roundup for 2021
In the past year, an increase in EFSA Scientific Opinions related to the protein alternative space was observed. Two plant proteins and three insect proteins were evaluated as novel foods in the EU. Pen & Tec has reviewed the EFSA Opinions and extracted the most note-worthy information that would be useful for applicants wishing to submit novel food applications for protein products.
