Ad-hoc online stakeholders meeting to follow-up the public consultation the draft food additive guidance

Background

On July 10, 2025, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) held an ad hoc online meeting with a group of stakeholders to discuss comments received during the public consultation period on the EFSA FAF Panel's "Draft Guidance on preparing an application for authorization of a Food Additive submitted under Regulation (EC) No 1331/2008," which took place from December 2024 to February 2025.

In line with its commitment to engaging with stakeholders and enhancing understanding of its work, EFSA invited stakeholders who submitted comments during the public consultation period to attend this follow-up meeting and discuss selected comments related to recommended toxicokinetic and toxicity testing for food additives.

Representatives from industry organisations, as well as consultants in their personal capacity, attended the meeting. FAF Panel members also attended the meeting.

The meeting aimed to clarify the comments received on the toxicological data requirements and allowing the Panel experts and EFSA to address them during the finalisation steps that are leading to the revision of the guidance. The adoption of the guidance is scheduled for the plenary meeting in September 2025, which is open to observers (link).

The meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere, contributing to the mutual understanding between industry and risk assessors and marking an important step forward in fostering dialogue among all parties.