We are all familiar with the FAO / WHO expert panel definition and subsequent work for probiotics, from 2001/20002. This definition is good and has been respected from not only the probiotic community but also the scientific and regulatory communities since its inception. However it only provides a very general guidance for the recognition of the health benefit and consumer demand for probiotic foods, where a global regulatory landscape has been lacking.
Due to the technological and scientific advances within the probiotic industry we are now at a crossroads and a broader scope is required to include these advancements into new guidelines.
A harmonized framework would be in line with the core values of Codex. The establishment of global guidance will satisfy authorities, consumers and industry, and will certainly lead to better consumer satisfaction, health, wellbeing and ensure fair practices in food trade.
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