Novel foods in supplements: what they are and how to check
A novel food is a food or ingredient that wasn't eaten to a significant degree in the UK or EU before 15 May 1997. It can't be sold until it has been authorised.
£49.99 for 5 checks · No subscription · Checks never expire
Examples in supplements
- CBD (cannabidiol) extracts
- Some botanical extracts and new plant parts
- New forms of vitamins and minerals, or ingredients made by new processes
- Some algae, fungi and microbial ingredients
How authorisation works in GB
In Great Britain, novel foods are authorised through the FSA and Food Standards Scotland regulated products process. Each authorisation sets the specification, conditions of use, and sometimes specific labelling. An ingredient authorised in the EU isn't automatically authorised in GB.
How to check an ingredient
- Ask your supplier for the ingredient's novel food status and the authorisation it relies on.
- Check the conditions of use, such as maximum levels or target groups, and any labelling the authorisation requires.
- For CBD, only products linked to applications on the FSA's public list can currently be sold.
- Vitamin and mineral forms must also be on the permitted list for food supplements.
What we check
Our check flags ingredients that look novel and aren't clearly authorised, and reminds you of any labelling an authorisation requires. Confirm the status with your supplier before launch.
Check your packaging
Upload your artwork and get a report in minutes, with the rule behind every finding and a suggested fix.
ProofMyLabel is an automated pre-check, not regulatory sign-off or legal advice. The food business operator remains responsible for the packaging.