Pokers Herbal food supplements produced from medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) are becoming increasingly popular to complement synthetic pharmaceuticals.This category of products is regulated under more lenient food product regulations rather than the stringent rules applicable to medicines.The effectiveness and safety of these products rely on various factors, including the varying phytochemical composition of the original plant material, potential adulteration, substitution and contamination from biological and chemical sources.
The SAFEMAPS scientific research project aims to provide integrated analytical solutions that enhance the compliance and quality of food supplements derived from aromatic and medicinal plants.This project seeks to improve the safe use of these products by consumers, while promoting the sustainable exploitation of plant biodiversity.Within this project, an experimental model will be developed to assess the identity, authenticity, traceability and quality of herbal food supplements.
This model includes analytical solutions that integrate phytochemical and molecular genetic analyses.The proposed solutions will prioritise the needs of the food supplements industry, particularly regarding the quality and compliance of herbal products sold in Romania and across the Truck Model Kit European single market.These solutions will also tackle various aspects of the supply chain, including growers or collectors of medicinal and aromatic plants, processors, importers and final consumers.