Health Canada has made an important decision regarding grape seed extract, now approved for use as a supplemental ingredient in foods. This modification marks a major development for businesses operating in the health and nutrition sector. Keep reading to learn how this change can affect your products and compliance strategies.
Health Canada’s Decision on Grape Seed Extract
Health Canada’s Food and Nutrition Directorate has completed a safety assessment of grape seed extract (oligomeric proanthocyanidins) for use in foods, concluding that its safety for consumption. As of January 16, 2025, this ingredient is now officially listed as a permitted supplemental ingredient under the Supplemented Foods regulatory framework.
What Does This Mean for Your Business?
Does your company manufacture or market food products containing grape seed extract? If so, it’s important to be aware of the recent regulatory changes. This decision allows you to include the ingredient in your formulations, but compliance with the updated regulations is still required.
Steps for Ensuring Compliance
As the industry adapts to this new regulation, staying compliant will be crucial. We recommend reviewing Health Canada’s guidelines on supplemented foods and consulting with experts to ensure your products meet all safety standards. You can find further information in the Notice of Modification.
The Importance of Ongoing Safety Assessments
Health Canada’s process involved a thorough safety assessment and a public consultation, ensuring that the ingredient’s use in food is safe for consumers. As a result, they determined the ingredient is safe for inclusion in food products. Therefore, you must follow future updates regarding similar ingredients and stay informed about the regulatory landscape.
New Opportunities Ahead
The approval of the ingredient for use in foods is a significant move by Health Canada that can open new opportunities for the health and nutrition industry. By staying informed and adhering to the new regulations, your business can continue to innovate while ensuring consumer safety.
For more information and guidance on compliance, contact us at Quality Smart Solutions.
