FAO and WHO published the document «Food safety aspects of cell-based food»
On 5 April 2023, the FAO and WHO launched a new publication entitled «Food safety aspects of cell-based food». The publication includes the results of an FAO-led expert consultation that was held in Singapore in November 2022, where a comprehensive food safety hazard identification was conducted.
Hazard identification is the first step of the formal risk assessment process. The goal of the FAO/WHO publication is to capture key food safety issues in a timely manner, before products are widely available on the world market. In this way, relevant authorities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, will be equipped with up-to-date information and scientific knowledge on cell-based food production to consider potentially important regulatory actions and learn from experienced countries so that good practices can be shared.
It has been highlighted that cell-based foods are no longer futuristic foods. More than 100 companies/start-ups are already developing cell-based food products that are ready for commercialization and awaiting approval. Ahead of the commercial production of cell-based foods expands, it is necessary to address one of the most important issues for consumers: food safety.
FAO - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations