Overview of food law in the EU (recap 3.1)

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The European Union (EU) has established one of the most comprehensive and stringent regulatory frameworks globally to ensure the safety, quality, and traceability of food and feed. These regulations are designed to protect public health, promote transparency, and harmonize standards across member states, addressing both traditional and innovative food products. Key aspects include risk assessment, authorization procedures for novel foods, labeling requirements, and strict controls on contaminants, additives, and residues, such as antibiotics, in the food chain. The EU’s approach integrates scientific expertise, stakeholder collaboration, and adaptive policies to address emerging challenges, such as sustainability and technological advancements in food production. This framework not only safeguards consumers but also supports fair trade and innovation within the European market.

Overview of the EU regulations for food/feed (Markou G., 2021)

Regulatory Topic Description
General Food Law Regulation Regulation (EC) No. 178/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law, establishing the European Food Safety Authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety
  • Guarantee a high level of protection of human life and health and the protection of consumers' interests. Also guarantee fair practices in food trade, taking into account animal health and welfare, plant health, and the environment
  • Ensure free movement of food and feed manufactured and marketed in the Union, in accordance with the General Food Law Regulation
  • Facilitate global trade of safe feed and safe, wholesome food by taking into account international standards and agreements when developing Union legislation, except where this might undermine the high level of consumer protection pursued by the Union
Labeling and Nutrition
  • Food labeling legislation – (EU) No. 1169/2011
  • Nutrition and Health Claims – (EC) No. 1924/2006
  • Food supplements – Directive 2002/46/EC
  • Addition of vitamins and minerals – (EC) No. 1925/2006
  • Food for specific groups – (EU) No. 609/2013
  • Trans fat in food – (EC) No. 1925/2006
Biological and chemical safety
  • Food hygiene – (EC) 852/2004
  • Feed hygiene – (EC) Regulation 767/2009
  • Feed additives – (EC Regulation 1831/2003)
  • Undesirable substances in animal feed – Council Directive 2002/32/EC
  • Contaminants in foodstuff – (EC) No. 1881/2006
Novel Food (EU) 2015/2283
"Food business operators can place a novel food on the European Union market only after the Commission has processed an application for the authorization of a novel food, and has adopted an implementing act authorizing the placing on the market of a novel food and updating the Union list"

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