What is the FDA's new proposal regarding GRAS determinations for food ingredients?

The FDA has proposed requiring companies to notify the agency when they determine that a substance added to food is 'generally recognized as safe' (GRAS), changing the current voluntary GRAS notification program into a mandatory one; currently, companies can make their own GRAS determinations and introduce substances into the food supply without notifying the FDA.

How does the FDA's proposed rule change the current process for introducing new food ingredients?

The proposed rule would eliminate the current practice that allows companies to independently determine a substance's GRAS status and add it to food without informing the FDA, instead mandating that companies submit notifications to the agency for all such determinations before introducing the substance into the food supply.

FDA Moves to Strengthen Food Ingredient Disclosure Requirements

Aug 14, 2026

The US FDA proposed converting its voluntary GRAS notification program into a mandatory requirement for food companies. Firms must now notify the agency when determining substances are generally recognized as safe for food use.

cen

2026-07-06

Heavy Metals in Tampons Aren't Cause for Concern, Regulators Say

2026-08-14

FDA Moves to Strengthen Food Ingredient Disclosure Requirements

FDA Moves to Strengthen Food Ingredient Disclosure Requirements

FAQ