FSVO classifies debittered and decolored split peas as not novel in Switzerland; not subject to novel foods authorization
BLV-D-47263501/522 000.02.01 Federal Department of Home Affairs FDHA Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office FSVO Food and Nutrition Classification of debittered and decolored split peas as a not novel food Date: 30.04.2026 An application was submitted to the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) for classifica- tion of “debittered and decolored split peas” (extracted split peas) in relation to their novel food status. Split peas made from yellow peas (Pisum sativum L.) have a history of human consumption prior to 15 May 1997 in Switzerland or a Member State of the EU and is therefore not considered novel. “Deb- ittered and decolored split peas” is a product made from yellow split peas (Pisum sativum L.), whose sensory properties (colour, odour, taste) are significantly improved by a two-stage extraction process (solvents: 1,2-propanediol and water). The aim of the extraction is to reduce antinutritional substances and to process the product into an intermediate product that is neutral in taste, smell and color, thereby improving the suitability of yellow peas for use in a wide variety of foods. The FSVO has examined the submitted documentation and has determined the Novel Food status of “debittered and decolored split peas” (extracted split peas). The documents show that the composition of the “debittered and decolored split peas” can be regarded as ‘equivalent’ to that of split peas made from yellow split peas. Consequently, the “debittered and decolored split peas” do not fall under the category “food resulting from a production process not used for food production within the Union before 15 May 1997, which gives rise to significant changes in the composition or structure of a food, affecting its nu tritional value, metabolism or level of undesirable substances.” (Art. 15 para. 1 let. g of the Ordinance on Foodstuffs and Utility Articles (FUAO; SR 817.02). The FSVO concludes that “debittered and decolored split peas” are to be classified as ‘not novel’ and therefore do not fall under the definition of novel foods pursuant to Article 15 paragraph 1 of the FUAO. “Debittered and decolored split peas” (extracted split peas) are therefore not subject to the authorisa- tion requirement for novel foods under Article 17 FUAO.