Thailand Advances Regulatory Update for Probiotic Use in Food Products

On March 14, 2025, Thailand FDA revealed the latest process in revising the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH)'s notification on the use of probiotic microorganisms in food. This review aims to align national regulations with international safety standards while strengthening food safety control measures.

1. Review procedures 

The review and publication process for the updated notification is outlined as follows. Currently, Thai FDA is drafting a revised notification, which will be submitted to the relevant academic subcommittee for consideration.  

 2. First assessment results 

The initial phase of public consultation and data collection concluded on April 30, 2024. Following this, Thai FDA completed its assessments of the probiotic strains submitted for review. Accepted strains will proceed to the next stage of consideration and may be included in the final positive list once the new notification is officially published.

According to the data, a total of 268 probiotic strains were proposed for inclusion in the positive list. Of these, 236 strains are already listed in the European Union's Qualified Presumption of Safety (QPS) list. The assessment results are as follows:

• 33 strains received approval for further consideration.

• 61 strains require additional evidence before approval.

• 174 strains were rejected for not meeting the necessary requirements.

  
  

• 33 strains – accepted

• 61 strains – awaiting evidence

• 174 stains – rejected