European Union Approves Fungal Oil as a Novel Food Ingredient

On 31 July 2024, the European Commission issued Regulation (EU) 2024/2101 authorising the placing on the market of Schizococcus (strain CABIOA-2) oil as A novel food in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 2015/2283 of the European Parliament and of the Council. It also amended the annex to the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470 of the European Commission.

Schizochytrium oil is an edible oil produced by the fermentation of Marine microalgae Schizochytrium. This microalgae belongs to the fungal kingdom and is efficient at producing rich oils.

The characteristics of the oil are as follows:

1. Nutrient richness: This oil is rich in high concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA and EPA, and is an important source of these nutrients for vegetarians. At the same time, it also contains vitamins A, vitamin D and antioxidant carotenoids, providing a comprehensive nutritional support for the body.

2. Significant health benefits: Several studies have confirmed the positive effects of Schizococcus oil in maintaining cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health, promoting brain and vision development, and enhancing immune system function.

3. Edible safety: Schizomycetes oil has undergone rigorous safety assessment and has been approved by relevant agencies as a food additive and supplement, ensuring its wide application in the food field and consumer food safety.

4. Sustainability of production: Compared with traditional fish oil production methods, the production process of Schizomycetes oil is more environmentally friendly and energy-saving, effectively reducing the pressure on Marine resources, reflecting its sustainable development characteristics.

This regulation comes into force on the 20th day from the date of publication, which indicates that the strain oil products have obtained access to the EU market, and food producers can apply it in a variety of food products.

Industry experts pointed out that the decision reflects the EU's positive attitude towards emerging food technologies. Schizomycetes oil has wide application potential in food field because of its unique nutritional and functional properties. With increasing consumer demand for health and sustainability, this type of innovative food ingredient is expected to stand out in the European market.