The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) recently published the findings of a report that was conducted to inform possible future changes to the Novel Foods Regulatory Framework. FSA commissioned Deloitte to assess the existing framework and provide feedback.

The report was conducted in light of the rapid development of novel foods and technologies in the present day, and FSA says that trying to keep up with the pace of innovation using the current Novel Foods Regulatory Framework may cause future challenges. Specifically, the purpose of the project was to understand the efficacy of the current Novel Foods Regulatory Framework and where there are pain points and opportunities for change; understand broader international and sectoral approaches to the authorization of new products (both food and non-food); demonstrate how the Novel Foods Regulatory Framework could be improved; and ensure relevant stakeholders across FSA understand the implications, risks, and opportunities of potential new models. The report is not intended to be implemented without further policy development and appropriate legal advice.