FDA to Close Food Safety Loophole After Commissioner Request

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to review a request concerning food safety regulations, following a directive from the health secretary. This action comes in response to a call from a former FDA commissioner to address a loophole in the existing system.

Addressing the GRAS Loophole

The health secretary indicated the FDA would “act on” the request to close what has been described as a loophole related to the “Generally recognised as Safe” (GRAS) designation. This designation allows food manufacturers to determine the safety of their own ingredients without pre-market review by the FDA.

Did You Know? In March 2025, the health secretary directed the FDA to revise the GRAS final rule.

Implications for the Food Industry

The move targets ultraprocessed foods containing ingredients like added sugars, refined grains, seed oils, food dyes and preservatives. The former FDA commissioner has suggested a need to change the way the country views these types of foods, drawing a parallel to past efforts regarding tobacco.

Expert Insight: The FDA’s consideration of this request represents a potential shift in how food safety is assessed in the United States, moving toward greater scrutiny of ingredients commonly found in ultraprocessed foods. This could lead to increased pressure on food manufacturers to demonstrate the safety of their products.

What Could Happen Next

It is possible the FDA will revise its approach to the GRAS designation, potentially requiring more rigorous pre-market review of ingredients. However, current indications suggest that formal regulation of ultraprocessed foods is not being pursued at this time. Food manufacturers maintain their products are safe and adhere to existing regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the GRAS loophole?

The GRAS loophole allows food manufacturers to determine the safety of their own ingredients without FDA pre-approval.

Who is calling for the loophole to be closed?

A former FDA commissioner has requested the health secretary direct the FDA to close the loophole.

What types of foods are being targeted?

The focus is on ultraprocessed foods containing added sugars, refined grains, seed oils, and chemical additives.

As the FDA considers this request, how might evolving food safety standards impact your dietary choices?