The Ministry of Future Affairs, in collaboration with Atova Regulatory Consulting, has launched the New Foods RegLab to address delays in EU novel-food applications. Up to 10 non-competing companies will participate in a two-day workshop in Brussels in January 2027, sharing anonymized findings with the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Commission to improve future pre-submission advice. Applications are open until November 30, 2026, and are open to EU and overseas companies, including UK businesses. The program aims to identify common challenges applicants face in interpreting guidance and preparing submissions, with the goal of streamlining the process and reducing uncertainty. The workshop will include discussions on regulatory strategies, policy sessions, and sharing of experiences, with the findings intended to inform recommendations for clearer guidance and more targeted regulatory engagement. The project is supported by the Dutch Province of Zuid-Holland and aims to enhance food safety, competitiveness, and strategic autonomy in the EU.
From cells to real meat
