Notification requirements prior to selling specific food products in the EU

The text you provided contains important information regarding the requirements and regulations for selling food products in the European Union (EU), as well as specific requirements in certain EU member states and the United Kingdom (UK). Here are the key points from the text:

**EU Food Law Requirements:**

- EU Food Law applies to all food products sold in the EU.

- Food business operators at all stages of production, processing, and distribution must ensure that foods meet the EU food law requirements.

- The definition of "food" includes any substance or product, whether processed or unprocessed, intended to be ingested by humans.

- Examples of food products include infant milk formulas, beverages, ready-made meals, canned goods, food supplements, and more.

**Notification and Authorization Requirements:**

- Certain food products, such as food supplements, infant formula, foods for special medical purposes, diet replacements for weight control, novel foods, and food products containing additives, enzymes, or flavorings, may have specific notification or authorization requirements before they can be sold in the EU.

- Food business operators must notify the competent authority of each EU member state where their products will be sold and comply with applicable notification requirements.

**Novel Foods:** Novel foods or products containing novel foods require notification to the competent authority and obtaining necessary authorizations.

**Food Additives, Enzymes, and Flavorings:** Food products containing these substances can only be sold if the respective substance is approved in the EU and used under approved conditions.

**Country-Specific Requirements:**

- France: Dairy foods for special nutritional purposes must be notified to the competent authority.

- Sweden: Pre-packed foods claiming to be "free from" specific substances must be notified to the Swedish Food Agency.

**UK Requirements:**

- EU food laws have been retained in UK law following Brexit.

- Foods sold in England, Wales, and Scotland (GB) must comply with UK law, including retained EU laws.

- Foods sold in Northern Ireland (NI) must continue to comply with EU food laws under the Northern Ireland Protocol.

**Legal Consultation:**

- The text emphasizes that the provided information is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice.

- Food business operators are encouraged to consult legal counsel if they have questions about the laws and regulations concerning their products.

This information is crucial for businesses that intend to sell food products in the EU and the UK, as compliance with food laws and regulations is essential to ensure the safety and legality of products on the market.