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FDA Tightens Ingredient Rules, Skips Ultra-Processed Definition
10 Aug
Summary
- FDA mandates ingredient reporting for foods under GRAS pathway.
- Definition for ultra-processed foods remains unaddressed by the FDA.
- New rule aims to close a loophole in food ingredient safety.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed a rule to mandate ingredient notifications for substances entering the market via the Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) pathway. This action aims to close a long-standing loophole that allowed companies to use ingredients without comprehensive FDA review.
The framework, established in 1958, has evolved into the primary method for introducing new substances into the U.S. food supply. The proposed change would transition the GRAS system from voluntary to a mandatory notification process, affecting all current and future ingredients.
Despite this move, a long-awaited definition for "ultra-processed foods" has again been deferred. This delay follows previous promises for an announcement earlier this year. Experts note that while closing the GRAS loophole is an improvement, the lack of a clear definition for ultra-processed foods leaves a significant regulatory gap.
This development occurs amidst ongoing large-scale foodborne illness outbreaks, including cyclosporiasis and salmonella. The FDA is also issuing new guidance on biological hazards in ready-to-eat produce.
