Coffee Literature Review Ep24. Novel coffee foods in the EU with Dr. Dirk Lachenmeier
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Jun 9, 2025 In this discussion, Dr. Dirk Lachenmeier, head of the Department of Plant-Based Foods at CVUA Karlsruhe, shares his expertise on coffee and food regulation. He reveals the potential of coffee byproducts like leaves and flowers to transform into valuable food items. Listeners learn about the complex EU regulations that govern these innovations—as well as the challenges and opportunities they present. The episode highlights unique products, such as coffee leaf tea, and navigates the emerging landscape of food safety and authenticity in a rapidly evolving market.
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EU Novel Food Definition
- Novel foods in the EU are those not consumed before 1997 within Europe. - Even traditional coffee products elsewhere require approval to be marketed in the EU.
Coffee Leaf Approval Expanded
- The EU novel food approval initially limited coffee leaves usage to infusions only. - Recent extensions now allow coffee leaf extracts in various alcohol-free beverages.
EU Novel Food Regulation
- EU's novel food regulation requires pre-market approval, unlike US post-market responsibility. - This approach prioritizes consumer safety but slows innovation.