A review on the role of food regulatory science for food safety in the era of Food-Tech innovation

In the Republic of Korea, the Framework Act on Food Safety has been implemented to ensure public health and safety by focusing on the formulation and coordination of food safety policies. In response to the rapidly changing environment, the Regulatory Science Innovation Act on the Safety and Commercialization Support of Food, Drugs, and Other Products was recently introduced to establish an institutional foundation for the swift commercialization of innovative products and ensure their safety. However, many issues need to be discussed regarding the application of regulatory science in the field of food safety. This study aimed to review the principles and characteristics of food safety regulations and derive the concept and role of food regulatory science. Food regulatory science serves as a critical tool for translating the fundamental principles of food regulation into policy. Prioritizing the advancement of research and development, training on specialized human resources, and establishing a robust support system for commercialization are essential to achieving this objective. This approach will facilitate the development and implementation of policies based on food regulatory science in the Republic of Korea.