Draft CAD template for precision fermented novel foods - Discussion paper

Committee Paper for Discussion - ACNFP/175/04

Advisory Committee For Novel Foods and Processes

Committee Advice Document Template for Precision Fermentation Applications

Issue

The Innovation Research Programme (IRP) has undertaken a series of desk-based research projects and expert elicitation events in 2025, to identify and characterise key limitations to the assessment of precision fermentation (PF) applications. This Committee Advice Document (CAD) template will collate all the learning from the PF programme into one document to provide a structure for assessments that, address common issues identified. A draft of the CAD template is attached for Members comments and input to provide a framework for the Committee Advice Documents produced for precision fermented products (Annex A).

Background

1. This CAD template was developed as one of the conclusions to the Science Research Workstream of the Innovation Research Programme on precision fermentation and aims to support the Secretariat and Committee when preparing CADs for novel foods produced by precision or biomass fermentation. 
2. The document considers the lessons learned through the IRP programme, with particular focus on the recommendations identified through four expert elicitation events on bioinformatics, protein digestibility assays and a case study on beta-lactoglobulin.
3. The document aims to capture these recommendations accurately and informatively and include standard wording for common issues which may benefit when preparing CADs for precision fermentation applications. The document has been drafted as an extension of the current CAD template used for novel food applications.
4. Members advice is sought to ensure that the document provides a useful structure for capturing the assessment of this type of novel food.

Committee Action Required

• Members are asked to review the CAD template and raise any comments or changes needed to ensure it can be used for preparing CADs for applications for novel foods produced by precision or biomass fermentation.
• Members are requested to provide substantive comments on the CAD template document during the meeting. Any minor drafting points can be sent directly to the Secretariat. 

ACNFP Secretariat 
January 2026

Annexes

Annex A – Committee Advice Document Template for Precision Fermentation Application.