A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

European Union legislation on macroalgae products




AuthorsLähteenmäki-Uutela Anu, Rahikainen Moona, Camarena-Gómez María Teresa, Piiparinen Jonna, Spilling Kristian, Yang Baoru

PublisherSpringer

Publication year2021

JournalAquaculture International

Journal acronymAquac Int

eISSN1573-143X

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1007/s10499-020-00633-x

Web address https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10499-020-00633-x

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/51355819


Abstract

Macroalgae-based products are increasing in demand also in Europe. In the European Union, each category of macroalgae-based products is regulated separately. We discuss EU legislation, including the law on medicinal products, foods including food supplements and food additives, feed and feed additives, cosmetics, packaging materials, fertilizers and biostimulants, as well as biofuels. Product safety and consumer protection are the priorities with any new products. Macroalgae products can be sold as traditional herbal medicines. The novel food regulation applies to macroalgae foods that have not previously been used as food, and organic macroalgae are a specific regulatory category. The maximum levels of heavy metals may be a barrier for macroalgae foods, feeds, and fertilizers. Getting health claims approved for foods based on macroalgae is demanding. In addition to the rules on products, the macroalgae business is strongly impacted by the elements of the general regulatory environment such as agricultural/aquacultural subsidies, maritime spatial planning and aquaculture licensing, public procurement criteria, tax schemes, and trade agreements.


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Last updated on 2024-26-11 at 12:18