Consumer Health – USA/Europe/Asia/ROW Regulatory News – Sept 2024

USA

Youth E-Cigarette Use Falls to Lowest Level in Ten Years

New findings from the 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS), released by the FDA and CDC, show a decline of 500,000 youth reporting current e-cigarette use compared with 2023. The data, published in the MMWR, includes insights on e‑cigarette and nicotine pouch use—two product categories closely monitored for youth appeal and potential health risks.

Recall: 7‑Eleven Fudge Brownies Due to Undeclared Walnuts

Innovation Bakers, LLC has voluntarily recalled 2,081 packs of 7‑Eleven Fudge Brownies distributed in Southern California after discovering they may contain undeclared walnuts. Individuals with walnut allergies are advised to avoid the product and return or discard affected packages.

Recall: Kandy Brand Whole Cantaloupes Linked to Salmonella Risk

Eagle Produce LLC has recalled Kandy-branded whole cantaloupes (UPC 4050, lot 846468) sold between August 13–17 in MI, MO, OH, TX, and VA. The melons may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause severe illness, particularly in children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.

CANADA

Manitoba Marks 10 Years of Farm and Food Awareness Week

The federal and Manitoba governments encourage residents to take part in events celebrating the province’s agri‑food sector from September 16–20. The initiative highlights the vital work of producers and the importance of a safe, sustainable food system.

Ontario Funding to Support International Agri‑Food Workers

Canada and Ontario are investing up to $1.5 million over four years to better support international agri‑food workers (IAWs). Enhancements include translation services, transportation supports, and cultural or recreational programming to strengthen retention and workplace integration.

EUROPE

Updated EFSA Guidance for Novel Food Applications

The European Commission has tasked EFSA with updating its scientific and administrative guidance for novel food applications. Two documents outline required scientific data and administrative steps for submission. The updated guidance will apply to applications filed from February 2025.

EFSA Identifies High‑Risk Bark and Ambrosia Beetle Species

EFSA, in collaboration with the University of Padua, has identified 12 bark and ambrosia beetle species that pose serious environmental or economic risks to EU plant health. These species, which attack broadleaf trees, meet criteria for potential Union quarantine pest classification.

UK

Ongoing Investigation: Mustard Ingredients Contaminated with Peanuts

The FSA and FSS continue investigating mustard ingredient supplies found to be contaminated with peanuts. The investigation has traced affected ingredients to three suppliers in India, which then distributed to three UK spice companies. Businesses have been instructed to check their product lines and notify customers if contamination is confirmed.

FSA Endorses New Professional Competency in Feed Qualification

The FSA has endorsed a new training and qualification pathway for individuals pursuing careers in animal feed regulation and official feed controls.

ASIA

SINGAPORE

Recall of Mini D24 Durian Mooncake for Excess B. cereus Levels

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has ordered a recall of Four Seasons Durian’s Mini D24 Durian Mooncake after detecting Bacillus cereus levels above safety limits. B. cereus can cause foodborne illness, resulting in vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Consumers are advised to avoid the affected product and seek medical advice if needed.

CHINA

2024 Traditional Chinese Medicines Scientific Supervision Conference Held in Beijing

The annual conference opened in Beijing with participation from senior officials of the NMPA, the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and other ministries, highlighting ongoing initiatives supporting scientific regulation of traditional Chinese medicines.

REST OF WORLD

BRAZIL

Anvisa Announces Sectoral Dialogues on Sweeteners and Titanium Dioxide

Anvisa is hosting virtual discussions on September 27 to gather stakeholder input regarding sweeteners and titanium dioxide. No preregistration is required.

New Food Regulation Framework Now in Effect

Anvisa’s RDC 843/2024 and IN 281/2024 introduce updated food regulatory requirements, strengthening pre‑market oversight through risk‑based evaluation criteria.

Guidance Issued on the Safe Use of Infant Formulas

Anvisa reminds the public that infant formulas—whether for infants (0–6 months), follow‑up feeding (6–12 months), or young children (1–3 years)—must be registered with the agency and used only under healthcare professional supervision. Consumers are encouraged to report any adverse events.

AUSTRALIA

Estimated Annual Cost of Foodborne Illness in Australia

Foodborne diseases cost an estimated AUD 2.81 billion annually (adjusted to 2023 inflation). High‑impact pathogens include:

• Campylobacter spp. (AUD 420M) 
• Non‑typhoidal Salmonella spp. (AUD 161M) 
• Norovirus (AUD 147M) 
• Listeria monocytogenes (AUD 90M) 

Attributing costs to specific food commodities remains a challenge but is crucial for informed regulatory decision‑making.