This bill mandates that food manufacturers in New Jersey disclose information regarding new food additives that have not been reported to the FDA. Specifically, manufacturers must submit an annual report to the Department of Health detailing any new uses of food additives deemed generally recognized as safe (GRAS). The report must include a signed statement certifying the GRAS status, the identity and method of manufacture of the additive, dietary exposure estimates, and any relevant safety information. The bill also outlines exemptions from reporting requirements for certain substances and specifies that the provisions do not apply to cottage food operators.
Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for non-compliance, with fines of up to $1,000 for first offenses and up to $5,000 for subsequent offenses. The Department of Health is tasked with creating rules and regulations to implement the bill, and it must publish a searchable database of the submitted reports on its website. The bill aims to enhance public awareness and safety regarding food additives by ensuring that manufacturers provide transparent information about the safety of substances used in food and nonalcoholic beverages. The act will take effect one year after its enactment, allowing the Commissioner of Health to prepare for its implementation.