What does GRAS stand for in food science?

The term GRAS stands for "Generally Recognized As Safe." This designation is a key concept in food science and regulatory affairs, as it refers to substances that are considered safe for consumption based on a long history of common use in food or on the results of scientific research. The GRAS status allows certain additives or ingredients to be used in foods without the need for an extensive pre-market safety evaluation by the FDA, provided they meet specific criteria of safety established by experts in the field.

This concept plays a significant role in the regulation of food ingredients, allowing for the inclusion of common substances that have established a safety history through traditional use or scientific consensus, thus streamlining the process for manufacturers. This understanding is crucial for those involved in food formulation and safety assessments.