Info session on the updated Food Additive Guidance

Background 

On 20 January 2026, EFSA published its updated Scientific Guidance on Food Additives. The revised guidance will apply to all applications submitted under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 from 20 July 2026 onwards, covering both new food additives and proposed changes to the conditions of use of authorised additives. 

The updated document reflects the latest scientific and methodological advancements in the safety assessment of food additives. It introduces revised data requirements across multiple areas of risk assessment, including substance characterisation, manufacturing processes, proposed uses and exposure assessment, toxicological information, and considerations related to environmental safety.

The event was part of EFSA’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency, strengthen stakeholder engagement and foster the generation of high‑quality scientific data for the evaluation of food additives in the EU.

Objectives of the event 

• Present the main updates introduced in the 2026 Food Additive Guidance and explain their scientific rationale. 
• Clarify the revised data requirements, including specifications, proposed use levels, exposure assessments and toxicological testing strategies. 
• Provide an opportunity for stakeholders to ask questions and interact directly with EFSA staff.
• Inform stakeholders about the ongoing call of expression of interest in EFSA’s advice for food additive SMEs and first-time applicants.

Contact 

Do not hesitate to contact AskEFSA for more information.