FSA launches Innovation Research Programme to boost UK food tech regulation

Precision fermentation is a modern form of the traditional fermentation process. It uses bioengineered microorganisms, such as yeast or bacteria, to produce specific components including proteins, sugars and fats.

Some precision fermented products are already authorised and in use, such as fats in oil-based supplements like Omega 3. However, the technology is now being applied in more innovative ways, for example, fermenting dairy proteins for milk substitutes. These advances bring new regulatory challenges, which the IRP aims to address.

Supporting food businesses

Professor Susan Jebb, Chair of the FSA, explains:

"The launch of this new research programme is the latest development in our ongoing work to support innovation in the food sector while giving consumers a wider choice of safe food. We know that some businesses, especially those new to the food sector, are looking for support on their journey towards authorisation. Our new Innovative Food Guidance Hub is a one-stop shop for advice on the regulation of innovative food technologies, while the new business support service provides additional information and guidance to companies who are navigating the authorisation process for their products. As part of the programme, we’re working to provide greater regulatory clarity to industry on how to gain market authorisation in the UK, ensuring a swifter authorisation process without compromising on food safety".

Lord Vallance, Science Minister, adds:

"Clearer, smarter regulation is central to freeing businesses from unnecessary red tape, while maintaining the highest safety standards. By better understanding the science of food innovation and supporting industry to bring ideas to market with clear guidance, this Government funded programme will help cut the time it takes from initial research to a viable market product, giving consumers more choice and growing the economy".

Programme objectives

The IRP complements the work of the sandbox for cell-cultivated products, with funding from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT)’s Regulatory Innovation Office.

The programme will:

• Boost scientific knowledge to assess the safety of innovative food products

• Provide support to industry on how to apply for market authorisation in Great Britain

• Enhance the UK’s role as a global leader in food safety regulation by providing clear guidance on innovative foods

Practical guidance for companies

The new Innovative Food Guidance Hub builds upon the FSA’s existing framework on novel foods, while the business support service extends the pilot initiative for cell-cultivated products.

Both services aim to help businesses demonstrate the safety of their products and guide them through the authorisation process. Companies can access more details on the FSA website, including how to submit a Pre-Submission Enquiry Form, the types of support available, and guidance on preparing a dossier.

More information