Precision fermentation: With a focus on food safety

The term “precision fermentation” is often used to describe specific fermentation processes for a targeted and efficient production of food ingredients. The term is increasingly used for the production of compounds traditionally sourced from animals. While such processes have been around for a while, the term precision fermentation is relatively new. However, there is no internationally agreed definition, and this may hamper communication among those wishing to discuss the processes of precision fermentation, particularly the food safety competentauthorities. A wide variety of food ingredients can be produced through precision fermentation. Identifying the general characteristics of precision fermentation production processes and the potential associated hazards can be a first useful step for competent authorities to initiate regulatory actions. To this end, precision fermentation production processes have been studied through an in-depth literature synthesis and existing regulatory frameworks applicable to precision fermentation derived food products were collected from various jurisdictions. Although the definitions vary, the study revealed that precision fermentation can be well explained by a generic production process. It was also understood that many countries have been taking a similar regulatory approach to ensure the food safety of products derived from precision fermentation. The document can serve as a reference point for countries that would like to consider adopting relevant food safety regulatory approaches for precision fermentation derived food products, from reflecting on the appropriate definitions to identifying the needs for food safety assessments and other necessary regulatory actions.