FAO, WHO Publish First Global Report on Cell-Based Food Safety
The first global report on the food safety aspects of cell-based foods has been published by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The report is intended to provide a solid scientific basis to begin establishing regulatory frameworks and effective systems to ensure the safety of these alternative proteins.
According to FAO, at present, more than 100 companies around the world are already developing cell-based food products that are ready for commercialization and awaiting approval. Some countries, such as Singapore and the U.S., have already made steps toward introducing cell-based foods to the market. With its publication, FAO/WHO sought to identify the potential food safety implications before products become widely available to consumers.