Guide to Novel Food Approval in the United Kingdom
Comprehensive guide to the novel food approval process in the UK, including pre-application support and comparison with the EU system.
# Guide to Novel Food Approval in the United Kingdom
The approval process for novel foods in the UK has evolved since Brexit. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current procedure.
What Are Novel Foods?
Novel foods are foods or food ingredients that were not consumed to a significant degree in the EU or UK before May 15, 1997.
The Approval Process
Phase 1: Preparation - Determining if the product qualifies as a novel food - Gathering scientific data - Preparing application documents
Phase 2: Pre-Application Support The FSA offers: - Individual consultations for innovative products - Access to the Innovation Guidance Hub - Technical support for SMEs
Phase 3: Application Submission Required documents: - Detailed product description - Production process - Composition and specifications - Safety data
Phase 4: Evaluation - Scientific assessment by the FSA - Average processing time: 2-3 years
Phase 5: Approval - Ministerial decision - Registration in a public register
UK vs. EU Comparison
The UK offers faster procedures and more pre-application support than the EU.
Source: [Food Navigator](https://www.foodnavigator.com/Article/2025/08/29/how-to-get-novel-foods-approved/)
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