Algal‐derived functional additives for ensured safety and efficacy

This document was developed within the framework of the EU-FORA fellowship programme, which aims to improve expertise in food risk assessment through training to ensure awareness for future risk analysis needs. The work aimed to study extracts obtained from macroalgae to be used as functional additives and discusses issues related to their efficacy and chemical safety. Macroalgae have promising potential as a source of bioactive compounds for functional foods due to their antioxidant, antimicrobial, neuroprotective and anticancer properties. However, ensuring safety is of paramount importance due to concerns about the presence of endogenous and exogenous contaminants, such as heavy metals, organic pollutants and other elements like arsenic and iodine.