More than 20 algae species can now be sold as food or food supplements in the EU

More than 20 algae species have been added to the EU Novel Food Status Catalogue. Thanks to collaborative efforts of the European Commission and EU Member States’ competent authorities, they can now be sold on the market as food or food supplements.  

It not only eliminates a bottleneck in the development of the sector, but also saves the industry significant time and money. This should result in a shortened process for the marketing authorisation of algae products, leading to an estimated cost savings of at least €10 million for the algae industry in the EU. 

The addition of the new species to the Novel Food Status Catalogue is a game-changer for the algae industry in Europe. Previously, only very few types of algae were considered non-novel foods or non-novel food supplements in the EU. The updated catalogue includes now more than 60 entries, covering several species of microalgae and seaweed derived products (such as extracts, or oils). 

Since these algae species have traditionally been used as food in any EU country, producers can now bring their products to market without having to obtain a pre-market authorisation. 

All the EU food and safety regulations – such as the General Food Law (Regulation (EC) No 178/2002) – do, of course, apply to these products. 

Overall, the expanded list of recognised algae species is a win-win for both producers and consumers. It promotes innovation and diversity in the food and supplement market, while ensuring that consumers have access to safe products. 

Background  

Supporting the algae sector 

In November 2022, The European Commission adopted the communication ‘Towards a strong and sustainable EU algae sector', a pioneering initiative to unlock the potential of algae in the European Union.  

The communication proposes 23 actions to create opportunities for the industry to help it grow into a robust, sustainable and regenerative sector capable of meeting the growing EU demand.  

The EU is one of the biggest importers of seaweed products globally, and the demand is expected to reach €9 billion in 2030, especially in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and energy production. 

Novel and non-novel food status 

If a species is considered novel, it needs pre-market authorisation under the Novel Food Regulation. 

However, if there is evidence that the species has been traditionally used as food to a significant degree in any EU country before 15 May 1997, its use in food or in food supplements is not considered to be novel and does not need the pre-market authorisation.

EU Novel Food Status Catalogue 

The catalogue on novel food Status is a non-binding and non-exhaustive tool that provides orientation on whether a product can be placed on the EU market as a food or food supplement or whether it needs to be authorised by the EU. 

Novel Food Regulation 

As of 1 January 2018, the regulation (EU) 2015/2283 on novel foods is applicable.  

The regulation improves conditions so that food businesses can easily bring new and innovative foods to the EU market, while maintaining a high level of food safety for European consumers.