EFSA has published new guidance to harmonise the characterisation of microorganisms in areas such as food and feed additives, food enzymes, novel foods and more.The Guidance on the characterization of microorganisms in support of the risk assessment of products used in the food chain supports the preparation of applications for microbial products used in the food chain, such as bacteria, fungi, microalgae, viruses and related products.
It therefore provides guidance for the preparation of applications for authorisation of regulated products for use in the food chain, containing, manufactured or produced using microorganisms, whether genetically modified or not, which are subject to risk assessment under EFSA's mandate before being placed on the EU market.
This guidance focuses on the scientific requirements for characterizing microorganisms and, to some extent, their products.
It provides the basis for hazard identification to support the risk assessment of microorganisms and establishes the data requirements for conducting the risk assessment.
Advantages
- A big step towards alignment between work areas
- A clearer process for applicants
- Greater consistency between assessments