On 10 June 2026, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published a scientific opinion concluding that the food enzyme glucan 1,4-α-glucosidase produced from the non-genetically modified Aspergillus niger strain AE-GN is safe for its intended uses in food processing. The opinion, which assessed the enzyme's safety under proposed conditions of use, found no safety concerns for consumers, including for the production of glucose syrups and in brewing.
The evaluation was carried out by EFSA's Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes and Processing Aids (CEP). The enzyme is intended to be used in starch processing for glucose syrup production and in brewing to improve fermentability. The panel assessed potential allergenicity, genotoxicity, and toxicological data, concluding that the enzyme does not raise safety concerns at the intended use levels.
No prior coverage of this specific enzyme application exists in recent EFSA dossiers. The opinion is part of EFSA's ongoing work to evaluate food enzymes submitted for EU market authorisation under Regulation (EC) No 1332/2008. The assessment considered data provided by the applicant, including a history of safe use and absence of viable production organisms in the final product.
Impact on stakeholders
The positive opinion supports market access for the enzyme, but the applicant must still await a formal EU authorisation decision by the European Commission and Member States.
Brewers and starch processors gain a new tool to improve process efficiency and product consistency, potentially reducing costs and waste.
No adverse health effects are expected from consumption of foods produced with this enzyme, as the panel found no toxicological or allergenic concerns.
The opinion provides a scientific basis for the Commission's risk management decision, which will determine whether the enzyme is added to the Union list of authorised food enzymes.
Institutional follow-up
The European Commission will now draft a regulation to authorise or reject the enzyme, based on EFSA's opinion, with a vote by Member States in the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed expected within the coming months.
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