The European Food Improvement Agents Package (FIAP) is a set of four regulations that aim to harmonize legislation for food enzymes. FIAP also aims to improve the already harmonized regulations on food additives and food flavorings across the EU.
FIAP applies to all food enzymes sold or used in Europe, including imported enzymes and enzymes used in imported enzyme-treated food. The regulations have been in force since January 20, 2009, but the full implementation of FIAP will take place gradually over several years.
FIAP timeline
The food enzyme regulation prescribes a two-year window to submit dossiers in accordance with FIAP requirements for all existing food enzyme products in the European market. The safety aspects of the dossiers will be reviewed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The technological need and ensuring that a food enzyme does not mislead consumers will be assessed by the Commission and Member States.
Based on the results of the assessments, the European Commission will propose a list of food enzymes to be authorized. This list will be voted by the Member States and it will become the first EU positive list of approved enzymes. The list is expected around 2020.
When FIAP is fully implemented, only authorized food enzymes that are on the positive list will be allowed to be commercialized and/or used in the production of food sold in the EU. Until then, national provisions apply.