The use of algae biomass in foods is a growing market in Europe. On February 2024,a list of more than 20 new algae species has been added to the Novel Food catalogue. When there is the evidence of a traditional use of algae in any EU Member State before 15 May 1997, their use as foods and food supplements is not considered as novel and is not subject to a long and costly pre-market approval procedure according to the Novel Food Regulation. A list of around 50 algae species considered as not novel is now available in the EU Novel Food catalogue.
On 1 August 2023, the EU Commission published implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1581 amending Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470 as regards the conditions of use of the novel food ‘astaxanthin-rich oleoresin from Haematococcus pluvialis algae’. The new Regulation extends the conditions of use in food supplements for children aged 3 to less than 10 years and for adolescents aged 10 to less than 14 years of age (1).
The publication of a statutory instrument finally allows certain edible insects to be legally placed on the British market.
Alphitobius diaperinus larvae may soon be on our plates!
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