The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to revise its safety regulations concerning food ingredients, a move aimed at enhancing transparency and oversight. Currently, companies can self-affirm the safety of a substance without notifying the FDA, but the proposed revisions intend to eliminate this provision. This change would necessitate all companies to publicly notify the FDA of their intended use of substances and submit the relevant safety data.
The FDA maintains a public inventory that houses notices, supporting data, and response letters, all available for public review. Under the rule known as "substances generally recognized as safe," the FDA strongly encourages manufacturers to submit notices about food ingredients. However, the existing rules still allow companies to circumvent this process by self-affirming substance safety without any obligation to inform the FDA or the public.
The planned revision of safety rules aims to close this loophole and increase transparency for both consumers and regulatory oversight.
“For far too long, ingredient manufacturers and sponsors have exploited a loophole that has allowed new ingredients and chemicals, often with unknown safety data, to be introduced into the US food supply without notification to the FDA or the public.” – Robert F Kennedy Jr
In addition to amending these safety regulations, the FDA is also undertaking a significant restructuring of its food division. This restructuring is designed to heighten oversight of the food supply and agricultural products. Under the leadership of former commissioner Robert Califf, these changes are expected to reinforce the FDA's role in safeguarding food quality and safety across the nation.
The FDA's restructuring efforts reflect its commitment to improving its regulatory framework, ensuring that food ingredients undergo rigorous evaluation before entering the market. By mandating public notification and submission of underlying safety data, the FDA seeks to foster a more transparent environment where consumers can trust that their food products meet stringent safety standards.