The lactic acid bacteria, the food chain, and their regulation

This viewpoint deals with regulatory aspects of microbial cultures added to foods, and primarily the lactic acid bacteria (LAB). The authors propose a number of key principles for future regulation of these cultures by the European Union. These principles are supported by brief reviews of LAB taxonomy, safety, and consumer perception. Then, a review is given of advantages and drawbacks of current US and EU legislation and leads to a proposal for an EU system of generic approval of cultures. The system would be based on inventories of micro-organisms with well-established histories of safe use. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.