Impact study EU novel food regulation

Context

Low- and middle-income countries often face significant hurdles when trying to access the EU market with traditional food products that are not yet authorised under the EU Novel Food Regulation (2015/2283). Despite the existence of a simplified procedure for traditional foods, only a handful of novel traditional products were approved between 2018 and 2022. One region with great export potential is the Amazon, home to over 1,000 edible fruits. These forest foods are deeply rooted in local cultures and hold significant socio-economic and ecological value. However, the EU regulatory framework presents complex scientific and administrative barriers. This impact study aims to explore these challenges and recommend strategies to better support applicants from the Amazon region, particularly smallholders, women, and youth, looking to bring their traditional forest foods to European markets.

The study focuses on the Amazon region, including the countries Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru.

Project goal and outputs

This impact study will provide a deeper understanding of the regulatory and procedural challenges faced by Amazon-based actors seeking EU market access for novel traditional foods. The study includes stakeholder interviews, analysis of regulatory bottlenecks, cost assessments, and documentation of successful strategies. The report will highlight needs for technical assistance and capacity building and outline existing support initiatives. The final deliverable is a publishable, evidence-based report tailored for EU policymakers, with recommendations for enhancing access to the EU market.

Relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Promotes economic inclusion of small-scale producers and sustainable forest economies.

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: Encourages sustainable food systems and biodiversity-based products.

Involved organisations

Within this assignment, Q-Point is collaborating with Zeigler Advogados from Brazil, a law firm specialised in the field of food law.

Commissioner

This project has been commissioned by COLEAD. COLEAD is a network of companies, professional organisations and experts committed to inclusive and sustainable agriculture.

As a private sector (not-for-profit) organisation, COLEAD’s purpose is to support activities that aim to increase the agricultural sector’s contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. COLEAD designs, manages and implements development programmes. Online and in the field, they supply technical assistance; vocational training; and support services that offer research and innovation brokerage, monitoring of regulations and standards, market insights, networks and alliances, and access to finance.