The ACNFP advises the FSA on matters relating to novel foods (including genetically modified foods) and novel processes (including food irradiation).
It is a non-statutory, independent body of scientific experts that carries out safety assessments of any novel food or process submitted for approval under the EC novel food regulation.
Five members begin their three-year term of membership from September 2012 and the sixth member will commence their term in January 2013.
One ex-officio member will also be joining the committee in November 2012, by virtue of their position on the UK Department of Health's Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN).
There are 16 members in total to examine a range of issues and individual novel food applications can be considered on their merits.
The new members are Dr Susan Duthie, Simon Flanagan, Nichola Lund,Professor Harry McArdle, Professor George Macfarlane, Dr Rohini Manuel and Dr Carina Venter.
