FDA to require companies to notify agency of new food additives, creating public database

The Health and Human Services Department announced a new policy that obligates manufacturers to inform the FDA when they introduce a new substance into human or animal food, and to explain how they consider it generally recognized as safe (GRAS).\n\nThe rule also extends to substances already classified as GRAS that are on the market. Companies must disclose how each additive is used, and the information will be placed in a publicly accessible database.\n\nWhile the notice does not demand proof that existing additives are safe, it gives the FDA and independent researchers a clearer inventory of chemicals in the food supply, which could help identify those that may pose health risks.\n\nAdvocates of stronger food safety regulation have praised the increased transparency, but some note that the proposal stops short of fully closing the GRAS loophole, leading to mixed reactions.