Where regulations fit in the NPD process
Most food industry experts are familiar with the new product development (NPD) process, and how it’s often broken down into key steps. Where in this process should you consider the regulations, and why?
Where to consider regulations
When we pose the question ‘Where in the NPD process should you start considering regulations?’ to the attendees at our regulatory workshops, the majority of responses indicate that it should be during the product formulation stage. We would argue that this is too late. The sooner you start considering regulations, the more time and potential frustration you can save yourself in the long run. We also recommend not considering the regulations at only one specific step, but rather practising continuous regulatory engagement throughout.
Idea Generation:
Local regulations may result in numerous ‘roadblocks’ to innovation, for example:
- Additives not permitted, such as novel sweeteners
- Claims you intend to make which are not permitted, e.g. health claims
- Ingredients which are not considered ‘foodstuffs’ and are not permitted
- Compositional requirements that are applicable to certain categories
- The introduction of common allergens into the facility requires allergen control measures and potentially costly testing requirements
Product Development:
During the development stage, certain aspects of the product may change from what they were in the idea generation step. Therefore, it will be necessary to refer back to the regulations to ensure that the product ingredients and features are still in line with what is permitted. Once an analysis has been performed to ensure that the product’s nutritional and other properties correspond with what was expected, they must once again be compared to the regulatory requirements for composition and/or proposed claims.
Label Development:
There are various regulations that must be considered for label development, depending on the nature of the product. Please see our article on the regulatory framework in SA: South Africa’s Regulatory Framework (factssa.com). Also, the regulations are often helpful in the development of the product information file (or specification sheet), as well as for an ongoing testing schedule to ensure continuous compliance.
Commercialisation:
Once your product has been launched, staying up to date with regulatory changes is imperative. When new regulations and amendments to current regulations are promulgated, these may affect your product.
The NPD process is an integral part of any food manufacturing environment; but neglecting the consideration of regulations throughout the process can result in money and time lost.
FACTS can offer assistance throughout the product journey. Contact us for more information.
Other articles and resources you may be interested in:
Minimum labelling infographic
South Africa’s Regulatory framework
What to keep on file, according to R. 146
Distinguishing date markings
Allergen Management
Food product, thy name is…?