FDA officially revealed its intent to issue a proposed rule that would make significant changes to the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) process, which, at present, enables the introduction of ingredients to the U.S. food supply without formal safety review.
Consumer and regulatory demand for naturally derived alternatives to synthetic food colorants is on the rise. To meet that demand, Cornell University scientists have developed a new blue food dye made of algae protein.
A peer-reviewed study led by CU Boulder researchers demonstrates that erythritol, a popular non-nutritive sugar alcohol that is commonly used as a zero-calorie sweetener in “sugar-free” snacks and beverages, may increase stroke risk by may constricting the brain’s blood vessels and lowering the body’s ability to dissolve blood clots.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has approved Arla Foods Ingredients’ application for the use of its milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) as a nutritive ingredient in infant formula products.
The Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act of 2025 would set stricter requirements for manufactures to decide a food ingredient is “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS). It also sets an annual quota of GRAS notices for FDA to review, and lays the groundwork for a systematic chemical reassessment process.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recently completed an assessment of estragole—a naturally occurring genotoxin and carcinogen—in fennel seed preparations, concluding that consumption of fennel seed preparations may be toxic to infants, children, and fetuses. EFSA is seeking public comment.
FDA has shared concern about the growing number of edible products containing kratom available for sale online and at retailers like gas stations and smoke shops across the U.S. It has issued warning letters to seven companies for illegally marketing gummies, drinks, and tablets containing the kratom-derived concentrate 7-OH, a “novel, potent opioid.”
Following FDA’s announcement of its intent to end the use of artificial food colorants—largely by relying on voluntary action by industry—the agency has authorized a fourth petition for a naturally sourced food dye, Gardenia Blue. FDA is also reminding industry that even “natural” colorants must be approved by the agency.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reevaluated the safety of artificial sweetener acesulfame potassium (also known as acesulfame K, or additive E 950) for the first time since 2000, raising the acceptable daily intake. However, EFSA recommended lowering the maximum limits for lead and mercury in E 950.
During its 100th session held in June, the FAO/WHO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) evaluated the safety of eight food additives and one processing aid, including rosemary extract, Gardenia Blue, and carob bean gum, and revised the specifications of seven other additives and processing aids.
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