EU Authorizes UV-Treated Yellow Mealworm Powder as a Novel Food

"On January 20, 2025, the European Commission adopted Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/89, authorizing the marketing of UV-treated powder made from whole *Tenebrio molitor* larvae, commonly known as yellow mealworm, as a novel food within the European Union. This regulation amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470, which established the Union list of authorized novel foods. The UV-treated mealworm powder is recognized for its high protein content and is intended for use in various food products, including bread and rolls, cakes, pasta-based products, processed potato products, cheese and cheese products, and fruit and vegetable compotes. The authorization follows a comprehensive safety assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), confirming the product's safety under the proposed conditions of use. Specific labeling requirements are mandated to inform consumers of potential allergenicity, particularly for individuals allergic to crustaceans and dust mites, as cross-reactivity may occur. Additionally, the regulation grants a five-year data protection period to the applicant, Nutri’Earth, for proprietary scientific data submitted during the application process. This regulation will enter into force on the twentieth day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union, thereby updating the Union list of novel foods to include this new ingredient. "