The EU Regulations For Defining Botanicals

Guires Food Research Lab > Uncategorised  > EU Regulations  > The EU Regulations For Defining Botanicals
The EU Regulations defining botanicals (2)

The EU Regulations For Defining Botanicals

In the European Union, botanicals (plant based products) can be classified as either medicines or food products, depending on their intended use and the claims made about them.  

  • The distinction is made to ensure that consumers are provided with accurate information about the products they purchase and that they are safe for use. 
  • According to EU regulations, a botanical is considered a medicine if it is presented as having properties for treating or preventing disease or if it is used to restore, correct, or modify physiological functions in humans. In this case, the botanical must undergo rigorous testing and clinical trials to demonstrate its safety, efficacy, and quality before it can be marketed as a medicine. 
  • On the other hand, if a botanical is intended to be used as a food or food supplements and is not presented as having medicinal properties, it is classified as food products. In this case, the product must comply with food safety regulations and labelling requirements, and any health claims made must be substantiated by scientific evidence. 

It is worth noting that the classification of botanicals as medicines or foods can be complex and may vary depending on the specific product and its intended use. Therefore, manufacturers and distributors must seek guidance and comply with relevant regulations to ensure their products are safe and accurately labelled [1]. 

admin
No Comments

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.