NFX UK named as UK’s first platform designed to accelerate novel foods innovation
In an effort to unite stakeholders, promote clearer regulatory paths for novel foods, and speed up development, NFX UK, the UK’s first dedicated Novel Foods Expert Network, has announced the introduction of its new digital platform.
NFX UK said that through its community-building platform and support system, it will empower innovators to develop and commercialise new products and technologies more efficiently and responsibly, alongside assisting the UK to become a leader in the novel foods sector. This will include proactively monitoring any changes to the current regulatory framework and impact of global developments, such as the recent UK-EU trade deal, and connecting businesses with experts who can provide appropriate advice.
Led by RSSL in collaboration with Imperial College London and The Supplant Company, and supported by funding from Innovate UK, NFX UK has been established to connect novel foods innovators with leading regulatory and scientific expertise. The network is designed to support a more efficient and informed regulatory approval process, promoting best practices and fostering cross-sector collaboration.
Members of the NFX UK Network will benefit from expert insights, practical resources, and a collaborative community. In the coming months, they will also have access to the NFX UK Knowledge Hub, a comprehensive resource created to help innovators navigate the complex world of novel foods research and development.
The Knowledge Hub will feature:
- The novel foods roadmap: Aa step-by-step overview of the UK’s novel foods regulatory process, offering a clear guide to application stages, requirements, and approval timelines.
- Digital Resources: a curated library of up-to-date guidance materials, regulatory tools, topic-specific insights, and information on emerging trends in food innovation.
- Expert directory: an exclusive network of regulatory consultants, food safety experts, analytical service providers, technical experts, academics and process experts
The Knowledge Hub will also contain frequently asked questions and case studies showcasing real-world applications and best practices, alongside a forum where members can engage in discussions and build collaborative relationships
As part of this launch, NFX UK is unveiling a new brand identity to support the network’s mission of providing the sector with an accessible, collaborative space for knowledge sharing and growth.
The new brand is anchored in NFX UK’s core principles of authority, collaboration, trust, and sustainability, and reflects a bold vision for how the UK can lead global food innovation. It underscores the network’s mission to create a dynamic & collaborative community that empowers stakeholders, simplifies regulatory processes, and helps bring sustainable, nutritious, and cutting-edge food solutions to market more efficiently.
To mark the official launch, NFX UK will be hosting its first major conference in September 2025, bringing together experts from across the sector to explore innovation, regulation, and the future of novel foods in the UK and beyond. Organisations and individuals interested in joining the network and helping shape the future of food are encouraged to visit the NFX UK website or follow NFX UK on LinkedIn for the latest updates.
Jacinta George, managing director & VP at RSSL, said: “We’re proud to see NFX UK launch as a standalone platform with a unique brand identity, built to drive novel foods innovation in the UK. At RSSL, we believe collaboration is key to solving the challenges of sustainability, nutrition, and food security. NFX UK will bring together the expertise, tools, and networks needed to accelerate new technologies and products from concept to market, and we’re excited for the future.”
Rodrigo Ledesma-Amaro, director of the BEZOS Centre for Sustainable Protein and Microbial Food Hub at Imperial College London, commented: “NFX UK fills a critical gap in the UK’s innovation landscape. This platform will be instrumental in helping companies working in alternative proteins and other areas navigate regulatory hurdles more effectively. It’s a perfect fit with our mission to support science-led, sustainable food solutions, and we’re excited to be part of this important collaboration.”
Dr Tom Simmons, CEO of The Supplant Company, added: “As food technology innovators, we know how challenging the regulatory pathway can be. NFX UK represents a major step forward in supporting companies like ours, offering clarity, connection, and a shared commitment to getting better food solutions to market faster.”
