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FDA proposes updated tool to measure food ingredient chemicals

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) aims to create a science-based, data-driven, systematic, and reproducible process to prioritise which food chemicals are candidates for post-market reviews.

On June 18, the FDA, the US federal agency responsible for protecting and promoting public health, released its proposed method for prioritising chemicals in the food supply for post-market safety assessment for public comment. The consultation process will close on July 18.

As part of its public commentary stage, the agency has encouraged consumers to respond to questions regarding the FDA’s decision-making criteria, definitions and weighting factors, as well as how the agency uses data relating to toxicity, particularly new approach methodologies (NAMs).

The FDA is also implementing a broader framework to ensure the US food supply remains safe through a robust and transparent process. “The tool is a key component of a broader framework the agency is developing to systematically rank and reassess the safety of chemicals already in use in foods,” an FDA spokesperson told Ingredients Network.

A new way to measure safety?

The proposed tool applies to chemicals including those classified as generally recognised as safe (GRAS), food additives, colour additives, food contact substances and contaminants.

“It represents a major step forward in FDA’s enhanced approach to food chemical safety and is designed to ensure that substances in the food supply continue to meet safety standards as new scientific evidence emerges,” an FDA spokesperson said.

The FDA focuses on chemicals that pose the greatest potential public health risks, rather than continuing with a case-by-case review model. “It is expected to significantly strengthen food safety protections across the board,” the FDA’s spokesperson added.

Chemicals are commonplace in the food industry. According to the US non-profit organisation Environmental Working Group, more than 10,000 additives are allowed in food sold in the country. Manufacturers include them in their formulations to extend a product’s freshness, provide added value through desired nutritional benefits, slow down product spoilage, and improve taste and texture.

However, the presence of these chemicals increases the prevalence of foodborne illnesses. The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that naturally occurring toxins, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals are among the most concerning chemicals for public health.

What does this mean for manufacturers?

Part of the FDA’s role is to ensure that exposure to chemicals in food is safe. Relevant chemicals include those that are authorised for use in and with foods during the packaging, processing, or other handling stages in the supply chain. This definition also encompasses contaminants that enter the food supply during the growing or processing environment.

In addition to regulatory bodies, food manufacturers also play a vital part in upholding food safety through effective chemical management. “Food manufacturers also have a major role in food chemical safety,” the FDA said. “The food industry has a responsibility to minimise or prevent hazards from contaminants and ensure the safety of chemicals they use,” the FDA added.