Introduction:

The List of Strains Available in Food was first released by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in 2010. After that, Chinese regulatory authorities have approved multiple strains available in food. At present, the list includes 17 genera, with a total of dozens of strains. On August 25, 2022, the National Health Commission (NHC) issued Notice of No.4, 2022, which updated the list, adjusted the classification and naming of some strains, and set a two-year transition period. Notably, both the original and the new names are available during the two-year period, and the updated list shall prevail after.

How to use the list:

Except for some strains with clearly defined scope of use, the rest listed are allowed to be used in various foods (including health food), but do not include infant and young children food. The notes are as follows:

1. The strains used in infant and young children food should be in accordance with the List of Strains Available in Infants and Young Children Food.

2. Strains traditionally used for food production and processing are allowed to continue to be used.

How to join the list:

For new strains which has not yet been included into the list, the safety assessment materials shall be submitted to the National Health Commission in accordance with the relevant requirements for the registration and application of new food raw materials in China. Only after passing the review can they be used in food.

CIRS Services

l  NHC New Food Raw Material Registration in China

l  NHC New Food Additive Registration in China

l  Genetically Modified Microorganism Food Additive Registration in China