Question

Explain what is meant by GRAS in the food industry.

Answer 1

Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) rules refer to sections 201(s) and 409 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

A GRAS ingredient is an ingredient that has undergone safety evaluations by experts and has been proven not to cause harm when used as intended. Once experts agree that it does not cause harm when used as intended, it’s added to the GRAS ingredient list. Ingredients falling into that category are considered safe and do not require additional safety evaluations. GRAS ingredients allow food manufacturers to produce foods and food products that are safe.

By creating an approved list of GRAS ingredients, food manufacturers can continue to innovate and respond to the market by incorporating these approved GRAS ingredients in their new formulations without additional FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approvals.

If scientists discover that a GRAS ingredient raises safety concerns, the U.S. FDA will revoke the ingredient's GRAS status, and it will no longer be allowed in foods.