As the European Union continues to strengthen food ingredient regulations, Novel Food compliance has become an essential consideration for manufacturers, importers, and brand owners.
Among botanical ingredients, Gotu Kola Extract (Centella asiatica Extract) and Jiaogulan Extract (Gynostemma pentaphyllum Extract) are two ingredients that frequently raise regulatory questions.
This article summarizes their current status according to the EU Novel Food Catalogue.
What Is a Novel Food?
According to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283, a Novel Food is a food that was not consumed to a significant degree within the EU before 15 May 1997.
Before being placed on the EU market, a Novel Food must receive authorization through the European Commission.
1. Centella asiatica Extract (Gotu Kola Extract)
The Centella asiatica plant itself has a documented history of food use.
However, the situation is different for standardized extracts.
The EU Novel Food Catalogue states:
- Stem, flowers and leaves
– Not novel in food
- Centella asiatica extract (standardised to 40 % triterpenes)
“NOVEL FOOD – According to the information available to Member States’ competent authorities, thisproduct was not consumed in the EU to a significant degree as a food before 15 May 1997. Therefore, apre-market authorisation in accordance with Regulation (EU)2015/2283 is required before it can be placed as food on the EU market.”
This means that standardized Centella asiatica extract(Gotu Kola extracts), especially those enriched in triterpenes are considered Novel Foods unless specifically authorized.
2. Gynostemma pentaphyllum Extract (Jiaogulan Extract)
Jiaogulan has long been consumed as an herbal tea in parts of Asia.
However, this traditional use does not automatically qualify it for the EU market.
The EU Novel Food Catalogue states:
·1 Leaf
NOT NOVEL IN FOOD SUPPLEMENTS
· Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract (standardized to 80% gypenosides)
“NOVEL FOOD – According to the information available to Member States’ competent authorities, this product was not consumed in the EU to a significant degree as a food before 15 May 1997. Therefore, a pre-market authorisation in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 is required before it can be placed as food on the EU market.”
What Does This Mean for Supplement Brands?
If your products are intended for the European market, regulatory compliance should be reviewed before product development or import.
Key recommendations include:
- Verify the Novel Food status before sourcing botanical extracts.
- Distinguish between raw botanical materials and standardized extracts.
- Request complete technical documentation from ingredient suppliers.
- Consult regulatory specialists when developing new formulations for the EU market.
Early compliance review can help avoid customs delays, product recalls, or market access issues.
References:
https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/novel-food-catalogue/search