UK FSA Opens List of Health Claims for New European Regulation
Even though the Regulation is not expected to be published until the end of this year the UK is opening its list now in order to give food businesses optimal time to compile the evidence required for their claims.
Under the new legislation, Member States, including the UK, will be responsible for compiling a list of health claims for consideration for a Community wide approved list. To be eligible for consideration, claims must be based on generally accepted science and relate to the role of a nutrient or other substance in growth, development and functions of the body, psychological and behavioural functions or slimming and weight control. Once compiled, the UK list will be submitted for assessment, on advice from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and agreement by all Member States.
Even though the Regulation is not expected to be published until the end of this year the UK is opening its list now in order to give food businesses optimal time to compile the evidence required for their claims. Once the Regulation enters into force Member States will have 12 months to compile their lists.
There will then be a two-year period during which EFSA will assess the claims and the Standing Committee will adopt the final list. Health claims that are not included on the final Community list will not be permitted for use once the list has been adopted. Claims must be submitted to the FSA using a standard template and must be accompanied by references to scientific justification and conditions of use.