Controversies Surrounding Novel Foods: What You Need to Know
The concept of “novel foods” is gaining traction in Europe, requiring a thorough evaluation by the EU food safety authority before these products can appear on supermarket shelves. Novel foods encompass a range of innovative items, such as cricket flour and UV-treated vegetables, as well as traditional foods from across the globe, like chia seeds.
While some sectors of the agriculture industry welcome these novel foods, the rise of alternative proteins has ignited significant debate and contention. Understanding the reasons behind these strong reactions is essential as Europe adapts to this evolving culinary landscape.
To shed light on these issues, we consulted with Agrifood reporter Sofía Sánchez Manzanaro.
John Peterson graduated with a degree in Agricultural Sciences from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. His specialization is in sustainable crop production and soil health management. John is passionate about integrating modern technology with traditional farming methods to enhance productivity while preserving the environment. He currently works as a consultant, helping farmers adopt sustainable practices.