4 clock-stopped issues across 4 opinions — rarely a standalone ADR trigger. But critical when the novel food replaces a conventional food or is a novel protein source. Protein quality (DIAAS) is mandatory for protein sources but frequently missing. Anti-nutritional factors are a recurring gap for insects and legume-derived products.
The specific issues EFSA most frequently flags in this section. Each of these has caused a clock stop in at least one published case.
Assessment of the nutritional impact of introducing the novel food into the diet. For products replacing conventional foods: comparison of nutritional profiles. Consideration of anti-nutritional factors. For novel protein sources: amino acid composition and protein quality (DIAAS). For fortification uses: contribution to total nutrient intake versus upper tolerable intake levels.
Real findings from EFSA panel opinions. Each quote is verbatim from a published assessment.
“Based on the DIAAS value obtained for the age group 6 months to 3 years (which should be used to assess the overall quality of new protein sources according to FAO, 2013), the NF cannot be considered a good source of protein, for which the DIAAS range has been set from 75 to 99.”
“Based on the composition and maximum proposed use levels of the NF, magnesium intake would be up to 400 mg/day, which exceeds the established UL for supplemental magnesium of 250 mg/day.”
“The Panel cannot conclude on the nutritional assessment of the NF because of the high levels of glucosinolates in the NF and the lack of a relevant health‑based guidance value.”
How this section plays out differently depending on your novel food type.
Protein quality assessment (DIAAS) expected. Anti-nutritional factors (chitin) must be addressed.
DIAAS for cultured meat products. Comparison with conventional meat nutritional profile.
Paste your nutritional information section and Borgh will flag the gaps that matter.
Try a section →