Beta-glucan obtained by bacterial fermentation of Agrobacterium pusense ZX09 is a novel food in the EU

The French Ministry of Agriculture has determined that beta-glucan obtained through bacterial fermentation using Agrobacterium pusense ZX09 qualifies as a novel food under EU regulations. The applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence of its consumption in the EU before May 15, 1997. Additionally, Agrobacterium pusense ZX09 itself appears to be novel, with no scientific data before 1997. As a result, this form of beta-glucan requires novel food authorization before being marketed in the EU.