GRAS meaning

GRAS stands for Generally Recognized as Safe, with the emphasis on Safe.


GRAS definitions

Word backwards SARG
Part of speech GRAS is an acronym and does not have a specific part of speech.
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "GRAS" is "GRAS" (1 syllable).
Plural The plural of GRAS is GRAS.
Total letters 4
Vogais (1) a
Consonants (4) g,r,a,s

GRAS stands for Generally Recognized as Safe and is a designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for substances that are considered safe for human consumption.

History of GRAS

The GRAS concept was first introduced in the 1958 Food Additives Amendment to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. It was created to establish a system for evaluating the safety of food additives. Substances that are determined to be GRAS do not require premarket approval by the FDA.

Criteria for GRAS Determination

For a substance to be considered GRAS, there must be scientific evidence demonstrating its safety for its intended use in food. This evidence can come from either expert consensus or through published studies.

Types of GRAS Categories

There are two main categories of GRAS substances: self-determined GRAS and FDA-determined GRAS. Self-determined GRAS substances are those where the manufacturer or producer has conducted the necessary safety assessments. FDA-determined GRAS substances are those that have been reviewed and acknowledged by the FDA.

Regulation of GRAS

The FDA oversees the regulation of GRAS substances and has the authority to remove a substance from the GRAS list if new evidence emerges indicating potential harm. This ensures that all GRAS substances meet the necessary safety standards.

Importance of GRAS

The GRAS designation provides assurance to consumers that the substances used in their food have been thoroughly evaluated and are safe for consumption. It also helps food manufacturers streamline the approval process for new ingredients.

In conclusion, GRAS is an essential regulatory tool that helps ensure the safety of the food supply while also allowing for innovation in the food industry.


GRAS Examples

  1. The Food and Drug Administration classifies certain food ingredients as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe).
  2. It is important to ensure that all additives used in food products are GRAS to maintain consumer trust.
  3. The company conducted extensive research to prove that their new sweetener is GRAS for use in beverages.
  4. The scientist presented evidence to demonstrate that the chemical compound is GRAS for human consumption.
  5. Before launching the new product, the company must obtain GRAS status for its key ingredients.
  6. The FDA requires companies to provide documentation supporting the GRAS status of their food additives.
  7. Consumers are advised to look for products that contain GRAS ingredients to ensure safety.
  8. The research team published a study confirming the GRAS status of a popular food additive.
  9. Regulatory agencies regularly review scientific evidence to determine the GRAS status of food additives.
  10. Food manufacturers must comply with GRAS regulations to avoid legal issues and protect public health.


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  • Updated 28/04/2024 - 16:46:25