This bill mandates that food manufacturers in New Jersey disclose information regarding new food additives that have been deemed generally recognized as safe (GRAS) to the Commissioner of Health. Manufacturers are required to submit an annual report detailing the use of these additives, including a signed statement certifying the GRAS status, the identity and method of manufacture of the substance, dietary exposure estimates, and any relevant safety information. The Department of Health will publish this information on its website, ensuring transparency for consumers. The bill also outlines exemptions for certain substances and specifies that the provisions do not apply to cottage food operators.
To enforce compliance, the bill establishes penalties for manufacturers who fail to adhere to the reporting requirements, with fines of up to $1,000 for first offenses and up to $5,000 for subsequent violations. Each day of continued violation is considered a separate offense. The Commissioner of Health is empowered to adopt rules and regulations to implement the bill and may seek assistance from the Attorney General for enforcement actions. The bill is set to take effect one year after its enactment, allowing the Commissioner to prepare for its implementation.