Swiss Novel Foods Regulation:
From Autonomous Adaptation to a Bilateral Treaty

Mpoi Leuta Hilpert

This paper examines the potential implications of the envisaged Food Safety Agreement (FSA) between Switzerland and the European Union (EU), focusing on its impact on Swiss novel food regulation. It begins by analysing the food trade dynamics between Switzerland and the EU prior to the agreement, highlighting the
challenges Switzerland faced due to its autonomous adoption of EU novel food laws. The paper then explores
how the FSA could influence Swiss novel food regulations, particularly in the context of the common food
safety area it seeks to establish between the parties. The findings suggest that the FSA offers substantial benefits for Swiss businesses and consumers through a streamlined regulatory process and enhanced food safety. Though some challenges remain due to institutional complexities, the paper concludes, nevertheless, that these challenges are unlikely to adversely affect Swiss novel food regulation.