GRAS Act

The GRAS Act (HR 4958) revises food safety regulations by removing the "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) exemption from the definition of food additives under federal law. It requires food manufacturers to submit detailed safety notices to the FDA for new GRAS uses, including scientific data on carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity, and cumulative effects, with the FDA reviewing these within 180 days. The bill mandates public comment periods for submitted notices and requires the FDA to reassess the safety of at least 10 GRAS substances every three years, including those marketed before the law's enactment. This directly affects food companies, distributors, and the FDA, adding new submission requirements, review timelines, and associated fees for GRAS-related activities.