FDA Launches Landmark Framework to Review Chemicals in the U.S. Food Supply

In a landmark move poised to reshape food safety in the United States, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on May 15, 2025, the official launch of its new post-market chemical review framework. This initiative signals a decisive shift in how food chemicals are regulated—introducing a proactive, transparent, and systematic approach to reviewing substances already present in the food supply.

A Proactive Pivot in Food Safety

Historically, the FDA has taken a more reactive stance, initiating chemical reviews only after receiving citizen petitions or in light of new scientific research. However, as public health concerns and scientific scrutiny of food additives have grown, so too has the need for a more responsive and organized regulatory process.

The new framework will allow the FDA to identify, prioritize, and evaluate chemicals in a way that reflects both current science and public concern. Rather than waiting for external triggers, the agency will now proactively assess which substances may warrant further safety evaluations.

Structured, Transparent, and Inclusive

One of the most significant features of the new framework is its structured methodology. This approach includes:

• A systematic process to identify and prioritize chemicals based on potential risks.

• Clear criteria for selecting substances for review.

• Enhanced stakeholder engagement, ensuring that scientists, industry representatives, public health advocates, and consumers all have a voice in shaping the review process.

Transparency is a cornerstone of this initiative. The FDA has emphasized that all steps—from chemical selection to final conclusions—will be conducted in an open and publicly accessible manner.

Groundwork Built Through Public Engagement

The framework’s development was set in motion by a public meeting held on September 25, 2024, where the FDA shared details of its proposed approach and gathered feedback from a broad spectrum of stakeholders. This meeting not only fostered critical dialogue but also helped refine the framework based on real-world input.

What This Means for Consumers and Industry

For consumers, this framework offers increased assurance that the safety of the food supply is being regularly and rigorously evaluated. For the food and beverage industry, it provides a clearer regulatory path and the opportunity to engage early and meaningfully in the review process.

By embracing a structured, forward-looking methodology, the FDA is aligning food chemical regulation with modern science and public expectations—marking a transformative step forward in safeguarding public health.

To follow updates, visit the FDA’s official website.