European Food Safety Authority

European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is an agency of the European Union (EU) that provides independent scientific advice and communication on existing and emerging risks associated with the food chain. The EFSA was established in February 2002, is based in Parma, Italy, and has a budget for 2016 of €79.5 million, and a total staff of 447.

History

The EFSA was created as part of a comprehensive program to improve EU food safety, ensure a high level of consumer protection and restore and maintain confidence in the EU food supply.

Role

The EFSA's main responsibility is to provide, in the context of EU legislation, independent scientific advice and clear communication on existing and emerging risks. The EFSA supports the European Commission, European Parliament and EU member states in taking effective and timely risk management decisions that ensure the protection of the health of European consumers and the safety of the food and feed chain. The EFSA also communicates to the public in an open and transparent way on all matters within its remit.

Structure

The EFSA's scientific work is done by independent scientific panels, each composed of national experts. The Scientific Committee provides multidisciplinary advice on issues related to food and feed safety, nutrition, animal health and welfare, plant protection and plant health. The EFSA's work is underpinned by its core values of excellence, independence and openness.

Criticism

The EFSA has been criticized for its alleged over-reliance on industry data and for conflicts of interest within its panels. The EFSA has also been accused of not being sufficiently transparent in its operations.

See also

• Food safety
• European Union
• Risk assessment

External links

• Official website

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