In 2026, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is initiating a significant update of its scientific framework for the assessment of botanicals. A key development is the planned revision of EFSA’s 2009 guidance on botanicals, marking a major step toward a more comprehensive and harmonised EU approach to plant-derived ingredients.
Revision of EFSA Botanical Guidance
•EFSA has officially included the revision of its botanical guidance in its 2025–2027 work programme, with preparatory activities beginning in early 2026. The updated guidance is expected to be finalised by the end of 2027.
•The current 2009 framework primarily focuses on the assessment of botanicals used in food supplements. The revised guidance is expected to significantly broaden its scope.
sc-work-programme-2025-2027.pdf
Expanded Regulatory Scope
•One of the most important planned changes is the extension of the regulatory framework beyond food supplements. The new approach is expected to cover a wider range of applications, including:
•flavourings derived from plant materials
•feed additives containing botanical ingredients
•broader use of plant-derived substances across food categories
•This expansion reflects the increasing complexity of botanical use in the EU market and the need for a unified scientific assessment approach across sectors.
# EFSA, #herbals, #food supplements