European Food Safety Authority – Maltese Focal Point
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has initiated Focal Points in the Member States to act as an interface between EFSA and the different national food safety authorities, research institutes, consumers and other EFSA-related stakeholders. The Focal Points ensure the exchange of food safety information between EFSA and national stakeholders through a national network.
EFSA is the keystone of European Union food and feed safety risk assessment. In close collaboration with national authorities and in open consultation with its stakeholders, EFSA provides independent scientific advice and clear communication on existing and emerging risks.
EFSA is connected with national food safety authorities via the EFSA Advisory Forum (AF). Through the AF, Member States advise EFSA on scientific matters as well on EFSA’s work programme and priorities.
The AF also helps address emerging risk issues as early as possible.
The main benefits anticipated from this cooperation includes the sharing of the burden of risk assessments, easy access to expertise not available at home and, in general, making the most efficient use of sparse and finite resources.
Maltese Focal Point of EFSA
In Malta, the Focal Point of the European Food Safety Authority is the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA).
What is the role of the Focal Point?
The role of the Focal Point is to act as a collaborative centre in Malta with the primary responsibility to support the Maltese representative of the Advisory Forum in gathering data and transferring information between EFSA and relevant bodies in Malta, which include risk managers, national authorities, stakeholders and research institutes in the fields of risk assessments on food and feed safety, animal and plant health, animal welfare and nutrition, and in communications in these areas.
The tasks for the Focal Point in supporting the Advisory Forum member of Malta shall be as follows:
1. Ensure the exchange of information on:
- The development of important risk assessment initiatives in Malta and in EFSA;
- Results of relevant scientific research projects;
- Ongoing risk assessments and opinions under preparation ;
- Issues that may give rise to potential divergences of opinions between Malta and EFSA ;
- Ensure close cooperation as far as appropriate on the preparation of EFSA’s and Maltese competent authorities’ Work Programmes;
- Requests for specific information.
2. Provide advice on:
- Scientific actions of common interest that could be undertaken within the network, in particular in the framework of Article 36;
- Review or proposals for new designations for updates of the list of competent organisations in Malta (Article 36 List);
- Assignment of tasks to Competent Organisations on the List;
- Monitor progress and performance of scientific work undertaken by Maltese organisations on the List;
- The development and maintenance of databases of scientific experts and research organisations in Malta that could assist EFSA and the national authorities in conducting collaborative work in support of risk assessments in the area of food and feed safety;
- Roster of national experts;
- Requests to national experts.
3. Provide support on:
- Disseminating materials concerning EFSA within Malta;
- Organising and co-ordinating in Malta the exchange of information and documentation concerning scientific activities of relevance to EFSA;
- Providing an interface between EFSA and national level stakeholders;
- Raise EFSA’s visibility in Malta.
#EUandMyFood |We all love food
Pesticides
We would like to inform you that on 26 June 2019, EFSA published the 2017 European Union report on pesticide residues in food:
The 2017 European Union report on pesticide residues in food
Please do not hesitate to contact pesticides.mrl@efsa.europa.eu for any enquiries.
Animal Health and Welfare
EFSA was awarded by the annual Ombudsman Award for Good Administration 2019 – section Excellence through collaboration for the initiatives and projects it carried out, in particular the EFSA’s MUST-B project and the EU Bee Partnership.
The link to the dedicated EFSA news story where you can also find out more about the bee health projects is the following:
Bee health: EFSA’s work recognised at EU awards
EFSA Third Scientific Conference
We are glad to inform you that the special issue of the EFSA Journal on the EFSA Conference 2018 - Science, Food, Society is now available for consultation and download.
The link to the dedicated EFSA Journal webpage is the following:
Special Issue: Proceedings of the Third EFSA Scientific Conference: Science, Food and Society Guest
Data Visualisation Products
We would like to remind you that EFSA has developed several tools to graphically display data. One of these is the interactive tool explaining the main issues and concepts within chemical mixtures through graphics and animations. The tool complements the guidance on harmonised methods for assessing risks from combined exposure to multiple chemicals for humans, animals and the environment.
Please follow the link to the tool: Chemical Mixtures Interactive Infographic
Scientific Opinion ‘Appropriate age range for introduction of complementary feeding into an infant’s diet’
We would like to inform you that on 12 September 2019, EFSA published the Scientific Opinion ‘Appropriate age range for introduction of complementary feeding into an infant’s diet’.
The link to the dedicated EFSA Journal webpage is the following: Appropriate age range for introduction of complementary feeding into an infant’s diet
Please do not hesitate to contact nda@efsa.europa.eu for any enquiries.
EU‐FORA: Series 2
We would like to inform you that the Second Special Issue of EFSA journal containing the Technical Reports of the second cohort of EU-FORA fellows, has been published.
Please follow the link to the Special Issue: Special Issue: EU‐FORA: Series 2
Re-evaluation on sweeteners
According to Article 32 of Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, all food additives permitted before 20 January 2009 should be subject to a new risk assessment by EFSA. The programme for the re-evaluation of approved food additives has been set up by Commission Regulation (EU) No 257/2010, which foresees in article 3(b) that the re-evaluation of all approved sweeteners listed in Directive 94/35/EC shall be completed by 31 December 2020.
In order to ensure an effective re-evaluation, it is important that EFSA retrieves all relevant data for the re-evaluation of the selected food additives. As outlined in Regulation (EC) No 257/2010 on the re-evaluation of food additives, in the course of the re-evaluation procedure, EFSA shall:
a) examine the original opinion and the working documents of the Scientific Committee on Food (‘SCF’) or EFSA;
b) examine, where available, the original dossier;
c) examine the data submitted by the interested business operator(s) and/or any other interested party;
d) examine any data made available by the Commission and Member States;
e) identify any relevant literature published since the last evaluation of each food additive.”
In order to address this work a “Protocol for the assessment of hazard identification and characterisation of the sweeteners” has been developed.
All the scientific details on this protocol can be found here: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/consultations/call/190705.
This document outlines the draft protocol for the hazard identification and characterisation of sweeteners in the context of Regulation (EC) No 257/2010 by the EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF Panel), supported by the Working Group on the re-evaluation of sweeteners. This draft protocol has been developed with the aim of defining as much as possible beforehand the strategy to be applied for collecting and selecting data, appraising the relevant evidence, and analysing and integrating the evidence in order to draw conclusions that will form the basis for the scientific opinions.
This protocol has been developed following the principles and process illustrated in the EFSA PROMETHEUS project (PROmoting METHods for Evidence Use in Scientific assessments) (EFSA, 2015). This protocol is iterative by nature and will be subject to a pilot phase. Should the need to amend the protocol emerge as the assessment proceeds, such amendments will be clearly documented and justified.
This protocol is applied to hazard identification and hazard characterisation. Exposure will be assessed following a separate protocol which will also undergo public consultation later in autumn.
Risk characterisation will be performed based on the outcome of hazard characterisation and exposure assessment
Mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in infant formula
The European Commission has asked EFSA to carry out a rapid assessment on the risks for public health related to the presence of mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in infant formula and follow-on formula. This follows the recent detection by NGO Foodwatch of MOAH in certain batches of infant formula in France, Germany, and the Netherlands.
The Commission has asked competent national authorities in these countries to sample the concerned batches and investigate the source of contamination. The results from this sampling will then be assessed by EFSA and we are required to deliver our evaluation to the European Commission by 18 November.
Further information about this request can be found in the mandate http://registerofquestions.efsa.europa.eu/roqFrontend/questionLoader?question=EFSA-Q-2019-00691 from the European Commission to EFSA.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact: UrgentRequest1@efsa.europa.eu
Previous EFSA’s work: in 2012, EFSA published a scientific assessment on risks to human health through dietary exposure to MOH. More information on this opinion can be found in the news story and scientific opinion HERE.
Mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in infant formula - EFSA report published
The technical report “Rapid risk assessment on the possible risk for public health due to the contamination of infant formula and follow-on formula by mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons” was published on Monday 18.11.2019. Please follow the link to the report: Rapid risk assessment on the possible risk for public health due to the contamination of infant formula and follow-on formula by mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons.
Updates on Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs)
EFSA has published its latest summary on the monitoring of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) in the EU. The report provides results on data collected in 2018 by all EU Member States, Iceland, North Macedonia, Norway and Switzerland.
The main findings are:
- One case of classical BSE in cattle (out of 1,181,934 animals tested) was reported in the EU. Three cases of atypical BSE were reported.
- There were 934 cases of scrapie in sheep (out of 325,386 tested) and 523 cases in goats (out of 138,128 tested).
- One case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) was reported in a wild moose, the first reported CWD case in the EU (out of 8,185 cervids tested).
Please follow the links to the topic and the report:
Topic - Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs)
Should you have any questions, please write back to zoonoses@efsa.europa.eu
Phthalates in plastic food contact materials
On 10th December 2019, EFSA published a scientific opinion on the update of the risk assessment of di-butylphthalate (DBP),butyl-benzyl-phthalate (BBP), bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), di-isononylphthalate (DINP) and diisodecylphthalate (DIDP) for use in food contact materials.
The publication was accompanied by the news story “FAQ on Phthalates in plastic food contact materials”, which is available in English, French, German and Italian.
The key messages are:
- Current exposure to five phthalates from food is not a concern for public health. Dietary exposure to the group of DBP, BBP, DEHP and DINP for average consumers is seven times below the safe level, while for high consumers it is four times lower. For DIDP, dietary exposure for high consumers is 1,500 times below the safe level.
- EFSA’s expert have set a new temporary group tolerable daily intake for four of the five substances of 50 µg/kg bw per day based on the effects they can have on the reproductive system and in particular a reduction in the hormone testosterone in foetuses. For DIDP, an individual TDI of 150 µg/kg bw per day was set, based on its effects on liver (also on a temporary basis).
For further information on the scientific opinion, please contact Katharina Volk (Katharina.volk@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Anthony Smith (anthony.smith@efsa.europa.eu).
Salmonella the most common cause of foodborne outbreaks in the European Union
On 12th December 2019, EFSA and ECDC published a news story on “Salmonella the most common cause of foodborne outbreaks in the European Union”, which is available in English, French, German and Italian.
For your information, the key messages are:
- Nearly one in three foodborne outbreaks in the EU in 2018 were caused by Salmonella. In 2018, EU Member States reported 5,146 foodborne outbreaks affecting 48,365 people.
- Salmonellosis was the second most commonly reported gastrointestinal infection in humans in the EU (91,857 cases reported), after campylobacteriosis (246,571).
- By far the highest increase in 2018 was in the number of West Nile virus infections. Cases of this West Nile virus were seven times higher than in 2017 (1,605 versus 212) and exceeded all cases reported between 2011 and 2017.
- Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) has become the third most common cause of foodborne zoonotic disease with 8,161 reported cases – replacing yersiniosis with a 37% increase compared to 2017.
For further information on the expert working group, please contact Frank Boelaert (Frank.Boelaert@efsa.europa.eu)
Rapid Outbreak Assessment report “Multi-country outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infections linked to eggs”
On Thursday, 6th February 2020, EFSA and ECDC published the Rapid Outbreak Assessment report “Multi-country outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infections linked to eggs, fourth update”.
The main conclusion of the report is that the outbreak is still ongoing and since no evidence was provided that the source of contamination has been eliminated, it is expected that further infections will occur and that new cases will be reported in the coming months. Additional investigations are necessary to identify the source of contamination.
For further information on the report, please contact Mirko Rossi (Mirko.Rossi@efsa.europa.eu )
Coronavirus: no evidence that food is a source or transmission route (09.03.2020)
Rapid Outbreak Assessment report “Multi-country outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infections linked to eggs”
We would like to inform you that EFSA published the Rapid Outbreak Assessment report “Multi-country outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infections linked to eggs”
Please follow the link to the dedicated EFSA Journal webpage: Multi‐country outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infections linked to eggs, fourth update
Lumpy skin disease: south-east Europe remains disease-free
EFSA published a Scientific Report on “Lumpy skin disease epidemiological report IV: data collection and analysis”, accompanied by a news story “Lumpy skin disease: south-east Europe remains disease-free”.
The key messages are:
- No new outbreaks of lumpy skin disease were reported in south-eastern Europe in 2019, meaning that most of the region has now been clear of the disease since 2016.
- The mass vaccination campaign supported by the European Commission continued in south-eastern Europe in 2019, covering more than 1.8 million cattle.
- An increased number of outbreaks were reported in neighbouring territories compared to 2017 and 2018, including outbreaks close to Greece, which poses a risk of spread to south-eastern Europe.
For further information on the Scientific Report, please contact Alessandro Broglia (Alessandro.BROGLIA@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Simon Terry (simon.terry@efsa.europa.eu).
Antimicrobial resistance in the EU: infections with foodborne bacteria becoming harder to treat
EFSA and ECDC published the annual EU Summary report on antimicrobial resistance in zoonotic and indicator bacteria from humans, animals and food, accompanied by a news story “Antimicrobial resistance in the EU: infections with foodborne bacteria becoming harder to treat”.
The key messages are:
- Salmonella and Campylobacter are becoming increasingly resistant to ciprofloxacin, one of the antibiotics of choice for treating infections caused by these bacteria.
- Data from humans, animals and food show that a large proportion of Salmonella bacteria are multidrug-resistant (resistant to three or more antimicrobials).
- Combined resistance – simultaneous resistance to two critically important antimicrobials – to fluoroquinolones and third generation cephalosporines in Salmonella and to fluoroquinolones and macrolides in Campylobacter remains low.
For further information on the Scientific Report, please contact Pierre-Alexendre (Pierre-Alexandre.BELOEIL@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Francesca Matteucci (francesca.matteucci@efsa.europa.eu).
Launch of EFSA website in Spanish
EFSA has launched an additional language version of their website in the fourth most spoken language worldwide: Spanish.
On various occasions it was requested that EFSA’s information material should be available in other EU languages - besides EN-DE-FR-IT - this request arising most frequently for Spanish.
Before coming to this decision, EFSA considered:
- The considerable number of enquiries received via our “Ask EFSA Service” every year by Spanish citizens and Spanish-speaking countries
- The considerable number of articles and media enquiries by Spanish media every year
- Spanish being spoken in many countries outside the EU (500 million people in total, globally), including countries with whom EFSA has bilateral scientific cooperation programmes (i.e. Chile)
- An analysis of EFSA’s website traffic showing a significant number of visits from Spanish-speaking audiences
- Recommendations stemming from the analysis of an in-depth survey on multilingualism in the EU institutions conducted by the European Ombudsman.
In conclusion, in 2019 the EFSA Management Team endorsed the launch of a pilot project for the Spanish translation of the EFSA website.
Today’s milestone marks the gradual, step-wise introduction of wider multilingualism into EFSA communications.
Please follow the link to the news on the EFSA website and on the social media: La EFSA incorpora el español
International Year of Plant Health: EFSA launches new website
To mark the International Year of Plant Health, EFSA has launched a dedicated website highlighting the work it is doing with its partners to combat plant pests and protect Europe’s crops, parks and gardens.
The website will be updated throughout the year with news and information on activities aimed at raising awareness about plant health in Europe and beyond, contributing to the efforts lead by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
Plants make up 80 percent of the food we eat. Yet, they are under constant attack from pests, with the FAO estimating that up to 40 percent of food crops are destroyed globally each year. Factors such as climate change, globalisation of trade and tourism are making things worse. That is why the United Nations have declared 2020 the International Year of Plant Health (IYPH): to raise awareness of how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect the environment, boost economic development, and contribute to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
2020 is not only the International Year of Plant Health, but also the year when the new Plant Health Law is implemented across the European Union. EFSA has embarked on several interconnected projects that support the European Commission’s efforts to protect the EU from plant pests and diseases and to help Member States prepare for future threats. Additionally, EFSA is planning a full year of activities in support of the IYPH which will also be highlighted on the new website.
EFSA’s dedicated microsite allows users to delve into several different topics and explore its work such as horizon scanning, the work EFSA does to track of emerging pests; pest surveillance, for which EFSA provides a toolkit that includes pest survey cards, survey guidelines, and statistical tools; the 20 priority pests identified by the European Commission; the high-risk plants whose entry into the EU is prohibited; as well as pest risk assessments and pest categorisations.
Please follow the link to the new website: https://bit.ly/2vN3pMy
New EU report on pesticide residues in food
EFSA has published the European Union report on pesticide residues in food which now also includes data from 2018. On the EFSA website you can find some dashboards visualising selected data. The dashboards are simple and intuitive, allowing you to visualise the number of samples in single countries, per food group, number of quantified residues per sample, and so on, by simply clicking on them. They are available in English.
Please refer to the following links to the dedicated webpage where to read the report and find the data dashboard and the links to the social media:
Report -The 2018 European Union report on pesticide residues in food
Data Dashboard - The 2018 European Union Report on pesticide residues - the EU-coordinated programme results
For any further questions, please contact efsa.campaigns@efsa.europa.eu.
Veterinary drug residues in animals and food
EFSA has published the report on veterinary residues in food and animals. The report summarises monitoring data collected in 2018. The data show high rates of compliance with recommended safety levels in the European Union.
Please refer to the following links to the dedicated webpages where to read the news in brief and the report:
News - Veterinary drug residues in animals and food: compliance with safety levels still high
ANSES opinions released in English on the work on Dietary guidelines for specific populations: pregnant and lactating women, children, elderly and infants
Please find below the ANSES opinions released in English on the work on Dietary guidelines for specific populations - pregnant and lactating women, children, elderly and infants - for which the Focal Point network had been solicited in 2017:
https://www.anses.fr/en/system/files/NUT2017SA0141EN.pdf
https://www.anses.fr/en/system/files/NUT2017SA0142EN.pdf
https://www.anses.fr/en/system/files/NUT2017SA0143EN.pdf
https://www.anses.fr/en/system/files/NUT2017SA0145EN.pdf
Information on postponement of the 41st international scientific conference HYGIENA ALIMENTORUM XLI
Due to the current epidemiological situation of COVID-19, the organizing committee of the 41st international scientific conference ’’HYGIENA ALIMENTORUM XLI- New trends in improving the quality and safety of meat and meat products“ decided to postpone this conference to the next year. Thus, the international scientific conference HYGIENA ALIMENTORUM XLI will be held from 19 to 21 May 2021.
Both the theme of the conference and the venue (Strbske Pleso in High Tatras National Park, Slovakia) remain the same.
The aim of the international scientific conference is to obtain new knowledge on the production, health safety and quality of beef, pork, mutton, goat and horse meat in relation to intravital effects and the application of animal welfare principles prior to slaughter. The scientific conference will also focus on new technological processes and the level of hygiene in carcass processing and meat handling to ensure health, safety and quality. In the field of meat products, the focus of the scientific conference is to promote modern technological production processes, pointing out solutions to improve safety and quality through the use of modern butchering technology, application of additives and packaging materials, taking into account the traditional quality of meat products, impact of retail on the quality of meat and meat products, possibilities of innovation in food sales and assessment of the situation of implementation of the European legislation and quality policy.
Please contact hygiena.alimentorum@uvlf.sk in case of questions or for further details.
ANSES opinion released in English on the safety of use of berberine-containing plants in the composition of food
ANSES released in English the opinion on the safety of use of berberine-containing plants in the composition of food supplements, for which the Focal Point network had been solicited in 2018:
https://www.anses.fr/en/content/use-berberine-containing-plants-food-supplements
EFSA scientific opinion “The public health risk posed by Listeria monocytogenes in frozen fruit and vegetables including herbs, blanched during processing”
EFSA published the scientific opinion “The public health risk posed by Listeria monocytogenes in frozen fruit and vegetables including herbs, blanched during processing”. EFSA has in fact assessed the risks to public health from Listeria contamination of vegetables that are blanched – scalded in hot water or steam for a short time – before they are frozen. The risks associated with the consumption of these products is lower than for ready-to-eat foods such as smoked fish, cooked meat, sausages, pâté, soft cheese. The scientific opinion is accompanied by a news story “Listeria in frozen vegetables: how to reduce risks” which is available in English, French, German and Italian.
Please refer to the following links to the news story and scientific opinion:
Plant health: pest survey cards go digital
The first batch of EFSA’s plant pest survey cards are now available in an easy-to-use digital format. Ten of the existing 28 cards – which are designed to help EU Member States plan their annual survey of quarantine pests – have been published as “story maps” on EFSA’s website. They are smartphone-compatible.
The cards contain material that is essential for carrying out surveys that conform to current international standards, such as up-to-date information on the pest’s distribution, its host range, its biology and risk factors, as well as available detection and identification methods.
They are part of a plant pest surveillance toolkit that consists of pest‐specific documents, such as the survey cards, and documents that are relevant for all pests to be surveyed, including general survey guidelines and information on appropriate software.
The remaining 18 cards will be adapted to the new format later this year.
You can also find more information about EFSA’s work on plant health and, specifically, on pests surveillance in our web on the International Year of Plant Health: https://bit.ly/2vN3pMy
Annual Call for Data & Video Tutorial
A new video tutorial on how to prepare and submit data to EFSA has been published. The video is intended to support first time data providers or those who are less familiar with EFSA data submission practices, for example from industry, academia and research institutes.
The tutorial is a simple, step-by-step guide for data providers on how to properly classify and label their data, then upload their datasets on EFSA’s Data Collection Framework (DCF) platform. It includes instructions and advice on using the available tools to prepare datasets and setting up an account on the DCF.
Please find the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4xPXDiWnpw
The video accompanies the annual call for data on chemical contaminants in food.
Please address any technical enquiries regarding the reporting of data to data.collection@efsa.europa.eu.
Xylella fastidiosa: 37 new plant species added to host list
EFSA updated the database listing the plants that can host the Xylella fastidiosa pathogen.
Thirty-seven new plant species have been identified as hosts of the Xylella fastidiosa pathogen. Most were naturally (not artificially) infected and were found both in EU countries (France, Italy, Portugal and Spain) and non-EU countries (USA and Iran). The new hosts include common ornamental, wild and commercial plants such as fleabane (Erigeron sp.), Helichrysum stoechas, pistachio (Pistacia vera), and persimmon (Diospyros kaki).
Here you can find more information: https://bit.ly/3bJnKSH
The newly identified hosts are included in the latest update of EFSA’s database of plants that act as hosts for X. fastidiosa. The list now comprises 595 plant species; for 343 of the species, infection has been identified by at least two detection methods under natural or experimental conditions.
You can also find more information about EFSA’s work on plant health and, specifically, on pests surveillance in our web on the International Year of Plant Health: https://bit.ly/2vN3pMy
Pesticides: first cumulative risk reports published
EFSA has published two Scientific Reports: one on the cumulative dietary risk characterisation of pesticides that have acute effects on the nervous system and one on the cumulative dietary risk characterisation of pesticides that have chronic effects on the thyroid.
The documents were finalised following a two-month consultation period during which EFSA received feedback from a variety of stakeholders, including national institutions, academia, non-governmental organisations and commercial associations.
The overall conclusion for both assessments is that consumer risk from dietary cumulative exposure is, with varying degrees of certainty, below the threshold that triggers regulatory action for all the population groups covered.
Please refer to the following links to the dedicated webpage where to read the news story, the Frequently Asked Questions and the two reports:
News - Pesticides: first cumulative risk reports published
FAQs - Cumulative risk assessment of pesticides: FAQ
Reports
- Cumulative dietary risk characterisation of pesticides that have acute effects on the nervous system
- Cumulative dietary risk characterisation of pesticides that have chronic effects on the thyroid
Campylobacter: updated scientific opinion
EFSA has published the scientific opinion “Update and review of control options for Campylobacter in broilers at primary production”.
EFSA experts have in fact updated and reviewed on-farm control options for Campylobacter in broilers, identifying the most effective ones and assessing the advantages and disadvantages of each measure.
Please refer to the following links to the topic and to the scientific opinion:
Topic - Campylobacter
Scientific Opinion - Update and review of control options for Campylobacter in broilers at primary production
For any further questions on the scientific opinion, please contact biohaz@efsa.europa.eu.
National risk assessment on heavy metal exposure published in Finland
Risk Assessment Unit of Finnish Food Authority has published the results of their new risk assessment on the dietary exposure of Finnish adults to cadmium, lead, arsenic, mercury, nickel and aluminium. The project continued an earlier assessment on the heavy metal exposure of Finnish children. Inorganic arsenic and lead were the two heavy metals with the highest risk to Finnish consumers, although the estimated exposure was lower than previously assessed by EFSA from EU data. The risk assessment report, including a summary in English, is available at:
Scientific opinion: risk assessment of ochratoxin A in food
EFSA has published a scientific opinion on public health risks related to the presence of ochratoxin A (OTA) in food.
New available data suggest that OTA can be genotoxic by directly damaging the DNA. Experts also confirmed that it can be carcinogenic to the kidney. Therefore a margin of exposure (MOE) was calculated, which is a tool used by risk assessors to consider possible safety concerns arising from the presence in food and feed of substances which are both genotoxic and carcinogenic.
Please refer to the following links to the dedicated webpages of the EFSA website where you will find the news and the relevant opinion:
News - Ochratoxin A in food: public health risks assessed
Scientific opinion - Risk assessment of ochratoxin A in food
For any further information on the scientific opinion, please contact contam@efsa.europa.eu.
EFSA Scientific Opinions on Food Contact Materials
The following scientific opinions have been published on the EFSA website:
|
EFSA-Q-No |
Title of the scientific opinion |
Adoption date |
Link to EFSA website |
|
2019-00150 |
Specific Migration Limits (SML) for substances used in plastic Food Contact Materials (FCM) – Review |
29/04/20 |
|
|
2017-00444 |
Request for the evaluation of a substance: Di(m-2,2',2''-nitrilotris(ethanol)-diperchlorato)dinatrium, synonym: TEAP; Catena-nitrilotris(ethanol)-diperchlorato)dinatrium, CAS 156157-97-0
|
29/04/20 |
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/6046
|
|
2018-00768 |
Request for safety evaluation of Veolia PET Germany GmbH recycling process (URRC)
|
29/04/20 |
EFSA scientific opinion “Welfare of pigs at slaughter"
EFSA has published the scientific opinion “Welfare of pigs at slaughter”.
EFSA has in fact provided its latest advice on welfare of animals during the slaughter process highlighting the lack of skills and/or training of the staff working in slaughtering as a serious welfare concern.
The scientific opinions on slaughter are based on the latest available scientific knowledge and are being developed in consultation with animal welfare experts from EU Member States.
The findings will be used by the European Commission in discussions with the World Organisation on Animal Health (OIE) aimed at aligning approaches to animal welfare at slaughter.
Please refer to the following links to the news story, topic page and scientific opinion:
News - Pigs at slaughter: measures to address welfare concerns
Topic Page - Animal welfare at slaughter
Scientific Opinion - Scientific opinion on welfare of pigs at slaughter
For any further questions on the scientific opinion, please contact alpha@efsa.europa.eu or efsa.campaigns@efsa.europa.eu.
Risk assessment transmission SARS-CoV-2 in hospitality settings
This is to inform you of a risk assessment the Netherlands performed to assess the additional routes for transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in hospitality settings. It was found that exposure to SARS-CoV-2 by drinking from a rinsed glass that had been used by a person infected with SARS-CoV-2 is a real possibility, and that this risk can be reduced by washing the glasses in a dishwasher. The risk is mainly relevant due to the numbers of people involved in visiting hospitality settings. In addition, the risk increases with an increase in the background prevalence of COVID-19 in the population.
The Netherlands were alerted by a consumer question addressed to the Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority in the Netherlands. So far no international studies were found on this specific topic, and therefore it is being assumed that this risk assessment is of interest to the general population. This work will contribute to combat further transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in our communities.
Please refer to the following link for further information: https://www.rivm.nl/en/food-safety/front-office-food-and-product-safety/beoordelingen-front-office-voedsel-en-productveiligheid
Update of EFSA Topic Page on Animal Welfare
The EFSA topic page on animal welfare has been updated including information on 5 new mandates received in the context of the European Commission's Farm to Fork (F2F) strategy.
As part of F2F, the EU is undertaking a comprehensive evaluation of its animal welfare legislation, for which EFSA has been asked to provide new advice that reflects the most up-to-date scientific research and data.
The mandates also cover animal transport and cages.
You can find out more information on the webpage including links to the new mandates.
Dietary sugars – new date in 2021 for safety assessment
The timing of EFSA’s assessment of the safety of dietary sugars has been revised due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the review of the exceptionally high volume of scientific information being considered.
A public consultation on the draft scientific opinion is scheduled to take place in the middle of 2021 with final adoption coming before the end of the same year.
EFSA’s nutrition experts are attempting to set a tolerable upper intake level for total/added/free dietary sugars if the available data allow it. Otherwise, other values could be used to characterise the risk. EFSA scientific advice will help national authorities to establish recommendations on the consumption of dietary sugars and to plan food-based dietary guidelines.
EFSA scientific opinion "Risk assessment of glycoalkaloids in feed and food, in particular in potatoes and potato‐derived products"
EFSA has published the scientific opinion “Risk assessment of glycoalkaloids in feed and food, in particular in potatoes and potato‐derived products”.
EFSA has in fact assessed the risks to human and animal health related to the presence of glycoalkaloids in food and feed, particularly in potatoes and products derived from potatoes, identifying a health concern for infants and toddlers, considering both mean and high consumers.
Please refer to the following links to the news story and scientific opinion:
News - Glycoalkaloids in potatoes: public health risks assessed
Scientific Opinion - Risk assessment of glycoalkaloids in feed and food, in particular in potatoes and potato‐derived products
For any further questions on the scientific opinion, please contact contam@efsa.europa.eu.
EFSA publications: Guidance on epidemiological studies
A draft guidance on appraising and integrating evidence from epidemiological studies for use in EFSA's scientific assessments has been published for a trial phase of one year. The document is available here: http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/6221
The respective guidance has been developed by EFSA’s Scientific Committee. Considerable effort has been put by a Scientific Committee working group in the development of three chapters providing an introduction on epidemiological studies, on key epidemiological concepts relevant for evidence appraisal and on appraising and integrating evidence from epidemiological studies, respectively.
The Scientific Committee agreed at its June 2020 plenary to publish a draft of its Guidance on appraising and integrating evidence from epidemiological studies for a trial phase of one year.
The finalisation of the guidance is envisaged after the trial phase in 2021.
EFSA launches new website to raise awareness of African Swine Fever
EFSA has been planning a major campaign to raise awareness of African swine fever (ASF) and to help halt its spread across the south-eastern region of Europe.
We are pleased to share with you the StopASF website: www.efsa.europa.eu/StopASF
Please note that the website is available in all the languages of targeted countries as well as in English, French, German, Spanish and Italian.
The video of the campaign, factsheets and infographics are available on the website. All material will be translated in the languages of targeted countries.
Together we can #StopASF
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EFSA's scientific opinion "Risk to human health related to the presence of PFAS in food"
EFSA published today a scientific opinion on the risks to human health arising from the presence of perfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, in food.
Experts set a new safety threshold for the main PFAS, that accumulate in the body, a group tolerable weekly intake (TWI) of 4.4 nanogram per kilogram of body weight per week.
The scientific opinion addresses the feedback received from scientific organisations, citizens, and competent authorities in Member States during a two-month consultation period between February 2020 and April 2020.
To learn more, please refer to the following link to the scientific opinion:
Scientific Opinion - PFAS in food: EFSA assesses risks and sets tolerable intake
Publication of the Horizon 2020 Green Deal Call and European R&I Days
We are pleased to announce the publication of the Horizon 2020 Green Deal Call.
This new H2020 call will offer opportunities to foster the contribution of R&I to EU Green Deal objectives, such as those related to the Farm to fork Strategy, the Biodiversity Strategy or to the zero-pollution ambition for a toxic-free environment.
You will find online details on the topics of this Horizon 2020 call by clicking here, including opening date and deadline for submitting proposals (PDF text here).
Please note also that relevant calls in EFSA’s remit are directly accessible through EFSA’s Research Platform: http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/engage/research-platform
For questions or clarifications on this call or other Horizon 2020 activities you may approach the dedicated Research Enquire Service of the Commission (link) and/or the network of National Contact Points (link).
EFSA grant - Call for proposals - Framework Art.36 of Reg. (EC) 178/2002 | Deadline 15/01/2021
EFSA is promoting the call for proposals (grant) “Automating some specific steps of Systematic Review process using Artificial Intelligence” – reference: GP/EFSA/AMU/2020/03
This call for proposals is divided in two lots:
· Lot 1 aims to support EFSA in its collaboration with ICASR (International Collaboration for the Automation of Systematic Reviews)
· Lot 2 aims to increase level of automation in data extraction phase.
Please find more specifics on the main objective in the call documents.
Please note that the deadline for submission of proposals is 15 January 2021.
Please refer to the following link to the EFSA webpage with more information and specific objectives of the call: GP/EFSA/AMU/2020/03 - Support for Automating some specific steps of Systematic Review process using Artificial Intelligence.
In case of any queries related to this Call, please do not hesitate to address them to EFSAProcurement@efsa.europa.eu by indicating the Call reference.
Final Report of the AF TF on Data Collection and Data Modelling - published online
EFSA would like to inform you that the final report of the Advisory Forum Task Force on Data Collection and Data Modelling has been published under EFSA Supporting publications on Wiley Online.
During the 67th AF meeting (February 2018) a Task Force on data-related issues was agreed to be created. The Task Force was composed by AF members (or their representatives), chaired by Hungary and supported by EFSA. The main objectives of the Task Force were to review, from a strategic perspective, the data collection and reporting processes, the data model and IT infrastructure that are used in the sharing of data between data providers and EFSA, and to formulate recommendations at a strategic level. The objectives of the Task Force were in connection to EFSA’s data-related activities and are presented in the final report of the Task Force.
The final report and the recommendations of the Task Force are the result of discussions at 14 meetings over the period of September 2018 to July 2020. The report also contains the resulting vision of a future ideal food safety system, as well as conclusions and recommendations for identified quick wins, short- to medium-term and long-term actions.
Report of the AF TF on Data Collection and Data Modelling
Online conference of the Polish Institute of Plant Protection - NRI: "New plant protection strategies", 10-12 February 2021
We would like to kindly invite you to the Plant Protection Conference – 61st Scientific Session of the Institute of Plant Protection – NRL, which will take place on 10-12 February 2021. Due to the epidemiological situation this will be held online.
The subject of the event will deal with the two European Commission strategies: ‘From fam to fork’ and ‘For biodiversity’.
An online registration has opened on 1st September 2020 on the following website: https://www.snior.pl/?lang=en
We would be delighted if you could attend the event.
African Swine Fever and SIGMA Project – information
EFSA would like to share the latest developments regarding the SIGMA Project. In the context of the mandate received from the EC on the epidemiological assessment on African Swine Fever, EFSA made the decision to collect the official data form the relevant countries using the SIGMA framework.
In the meantime, the data providers were trained on the DDI and on the SIGMA EST tool (for the mapping and creation of the ‘xml’ file to be submitted in the EFSA DCF).
For additional information do not hesitate to contact ALPHA Unit (ALPHA@efsa.europa.eu)
EFSA – CEP PLM15 (September 2020) – access to final outputs
Please be informed that the following scientific opinions have been published on the EFSA website:
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EFSA-Q-No |
Title of the scientific opinion |
Adoption date |
Link to EFSA website |
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2019-00686 |
Assessment of new information for Styrene (Food Contact Material, FCM No 193) for use in plastic Food Contact Materials |
09/09/2020 |
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/6247
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2019-00379
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Request for safety evaluation of the ONDUPET recycling process (EREMA "basic") |
09/09/2020 |
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2020-00048 |
Request for safety evaluation of the Somoplast - Riachi & Co recycling process (Starlinger viscotec deCON) to produce recycled plastic for food contact uses |
09/09/2020 |
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2020-00110 |
Request for safety evaluation of the Flight Plastics (UK) Ltd recycling process (Starlinger viscotec deCON) to produce recycled plastic for food contact uses |
09/09/2020 |
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2020-00171 |
Request for safety evaluation of the PT Asiaplast Industries Tbk recycling process (Starlinger viscotec deCON)to produce recycled plastic for food contact uses |
09/09/2020 |
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2020-00152 |
Request for safety evaluation of the Erreplast S.r.l. recycling process (Starlinger viscotec deCON) to produce recycled plastic for food contact uses |
09/09/2020 |
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2020-00247 |
Request for safety evaluation of the Sicht-pack Hagner GmbH recycling process (Starlinger viscotec deCON)for food contact uses |
09/09/2020 |
Rapid Outbreak Assessment “Multi-country outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to Brazil nuts"
On Wednesday, 21st October, EFSA and ECDC published the joint Rapid Outbreak Assessment “Multi-country outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to Brazil nuts”.
For further information on the report, please contact Eleonora Sarno (Eleonora.Sarno@efsa.europa.eu)
EFSA's scientific opinion on the evaluation of existing guidelines for their adequacy for the microbial characterisation and environmental risk assessment of microorganisms obtained through synthetic biology
EFSA published today a scientific opinion on the evaluation of existing guidelines for their adequacy for the microbial characterisation and environmental risk assessment of microorganisms obtained through synthetic biology.
The scope of this Opinion covers viable synthet ic biology microorganisms (SynBioMs) expected to be deliberately released into the environment. The evaluation was base d on: (i) horizon scanning of published information, (ii) gap analysis of existing guidelines covering the scope of this mandate, and (iii) future outlooks
The scope of this Opinion covers viable synthet ic biology microorganisms (SynBioMs) expected to be deliberately released into the environment. The evaluation was base d on: (i) horizon scanning of published information, (ii) gap analysis of existing guidelines covering the scope of this mandate, and (iii) future outlooks.
The scope of this Opinion covers viable synthetic biology microorganisms (SynBioMs) expected to be deliberately released into the environment. The evaluation was based on:
(i) horizon scanning of published information,
(ii) gap analysis of existing guidelines covering the scope of this mandate, and
(iii) future outlooks.
To learn more, please click on the following link: Evaluation of existing guidelines for their adequacy for the microbial characterisation and environmental risk assessment of microorganisms obtained through synthetic biology
COVID-19 Guides for Food Industry and Food Services Businesses and Risk Profile of SARS-CoV-2 in FBO issued by EFET, Greece
We would like to bring to your attention and to share with you the three Guides that have been issued by the Hellenic Food Authority (EFET) regarding the COVID-19 pandemia, which are titled as follows:
- Risk profile of the SARS Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in Food Businesses (English version, 22 October 2020).
- COVID 19: A practical guide for Food Industries (English version, 25 August 2020).
- COVID 19: A practical guide for Food Services Businesses (English version, 25 August 2020).
Please do not hesitate to contact us, should you need any further information.
New Job Opportunity in EFSA - ISA Scheme
EFSA has recently published two new calls for its SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT SCHEME.
EFSA is willing to establish a list of individuals (natural persons) with scientific expertise, to assist in carrying out preparatory work in different areas. The delivered preparatory work will be reviewed by EFSA staff and/or ad hoc experts for its use in EFSA scientific outputs.
For your information the eligibility criteria are indicated in the call. In particular, applicants must be citizens of a Member State of the European Union (EU), or of a country of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) or of an EU Candidate country. Experts from third countries may also apply, and will be considered, if the required level of expertise may not be found among nationals of EU, EFTA or EU Candidate countries.
If you are interested in contributing to the future of science and play a role in EFSA’s readiness for the future, make sure you consider these opportunities and/or spread the word within your network.
Please follow the direct link to the vacancy in EFSA: Notice of call for expressions of interest – Scientific and Technical support – Various Scientific Profiles (on-going call, no deadline for applications)
For any further questions, kindly contact us at recruitment@efsa.europa.eu.
Open Call for Proposals - Selection of Hosting Sites for EU-FORA Programme
The applications to be a hosting site for the next cycle 2021-2022 of EFSA’s European Food Risk Assessment (EU-FORA) Fellowship Programme are now open.
The EU-FORA Fellowship is a key initiative for building the EU’s scientific assessment capacity and knowledge community and it is aimed at early to mid-career professionals from EU and EFTA countries, giving them the opportunity to widen their knowledge and hands-on experience in food safety risk assessment. At the hosting sites, they will be fully integrated, participate in the organisation’s work, gain first-hand experience, and increase their knowledge of many scientific aspects relevant to food safety risk assessment.
The deadline for submission of proposals is 12th February 2021.
Please find more information at the dedicated web page.
Competent organisations from a wide range of Member States and with a vast range of domains of expertise are expected to apply for this unique and valuable opportunity.
For any further questions, do not hesitate to contact the EU_FORA team at EU-FORA@efsa.europa.eu
New Job Opportunity in EFSA - Seconded National Experts
EFSA has published a new call for Seconded National Experts.
EFSA is looking for qualified civil servants wanting to apply their skills and knowledge in the agency for a minimum period of one year, while gaining valuable experience that they could bring back to their home organisations at the end of their secondment.
If you are interested in contributing to the future of science and play a role in EFSA’s readiness for the future, make sure you consider these opportunities and/or spread the word within your network.
Please follow the direct link to the vacancy in EFSA: EFSA Seconded National Experts (on-going call with no deadline for submitting applications)
For any further questions, kindly contact EFSA Talent Selection Team at recruitment@efsa.europa.eu.
New EU summary report on surveillance for the presence of TSEs in 2019
EFSA has published the European Union summary report on surveillance for the presence of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) in 2019.
The report provides results on data collected in 2019 by all EU Member States, Iceland, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia and Switzerland.
The main findings are:
- No cases of classical BSE in cattle were reported in the EU (out of 1,150,388 animals tested). Seven cases of atypical BSE were reported: 6 H-type and 1 L-type.
- 997 cases of scrapie in sheep (out of 338,098 tested) and 390 cases in goats (out of 143,529 tested) were reported in the EU.
- Three cases of chronic wasting disease (CWD) were reported in wild moose by Sweden, (out of 7,980 cervids tested by member states). Two cases in moose were reported by Norway.
Please follow the links to the dedicated webpages where to read the scientific output and the updated topic:
Scientific Output - The European Union summary report on surveillance for the presence of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) in 2019
Scientific Topic - Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs)
EFSA published outputs on `Gene Drive`
EFSA has published:
1. a scientific opinion on “Adequacy and sufficiency evaluation of existing EFSA guidelines for the molecular characterisation, environmental risk assessment and post-market environmental monitoring of genetically modified insects containing engineered gene drives”. It was preceded by a public consultation opened also for comments, which resulted into
2. a technical report on “Outcome of a public consultation on the draft adequacy and sufficiency evaluation of existing EFSA guidelines for the molecular characterisation, environmental risk assessment and post‐market environmental monitoring of genetically modified insects containing engineered gene drives”; and in addition
3.an EFSA news, with the following key messages:
- EFSA’s existing guidelines for the risk assessment of genetically modified animals are adequate for evaluating risks associated with gene drive modified insects. However, further guidance is needed for some areas, such as molecular characterisation, environmental risk assessment and post-market environmental monitoring.
- Current research is looking at deploying engineered gene drives in insect populations, although it will take several years before the use of this technology can be applied in practical, real-life situations.
- To carry out this work, EFSA engaged with stakeholders and scientists at various points in the development of its scientific opinion. A stakeholder workshop in 2019 allowed EFSA to gather views on the subject, and the draft opinion was published for a nine-week public consultation earlier this year.
Scientific Opinion: Twitter; LinkedIn; Facebook
Technical Report: Twitter; LinkedIn; Facebook
EFSA News: Twitter; LinkedIn; Facebook
Public consultation: EFSA calls on risk communication experts and specialists for feedback | Deadline 17/01/2021
EFSA has launched an open consultation on a draft scientific report on Technical assistance in the field of risk communication.
The document provides an assessment of risk communication theory and best practice by EFSA’s social science experts and staff to support the European Commission implement a new provision of the 2019 ‘Transparency Regulation’ (Regulation (EU) 2019/1381): a General Plan for Risk Communication for EU food safety.
EFSA is calling on risk communication and science communication experts and specialists to review and comment on the draft scientific report. This includes practitioners at national, EU and international risk assessment and risk management public authorities.
Interested parties are invited to submit written comments by 17 January 2021.
Following the consultation, EFSA’s social scientists will review the feedback while finalising the scientific report, scheduled for March/April 2021.
To learn more, please follow the link: Public Consultation on a draft scientific report on Technical assistance in the field of risk communication
In case of further questions, you can contact the specific Unit’s functional mailbox: socialscience@efsa.europa.eu
New Job Opportunity in EFSA - Traineeship call 2020-2021 | Deadline 08/01/2021
EFSA has published a new call for Trainees.
EFSA is looking for motivated young graduates willing to have a rich first-hand experience in an EU Agency, taking part in diverse activities and supporting significant projects. EFSA is looking for graduates with various backgrounds, including science, law, communication and business, to support all units and all departments.
If you are interested in contributing to the future of science and play a role in EFSA’s readiness for the future, make sure you consider this opportunity and/or spread the word within your network.
Please follow the direct link to the vacancy in the EFSA’s website: EFSA Traineeships Call 2020 -2021 (deadline for applications 08/01/2021)
For any further questions, kindly contact us at traineeships@efsa.europa.eu
Transparency Regulation Implementation: webinar recordings now available and information on Training Programme
The recordings of the first webinar about the Transparency Regulation held on 19 November 2020 are available online on the event’s webpage: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/events/event/webinar-implementing-transparency-regulation-requirements-tools-and
A new webpage announcing EFSA's upcoming training programme on the new processes and tools introduced by the Transparency Regulation has just been published on the EFSA website: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/stakeholders/transparency-regulation-implementation-training-programme
The webpage features a call for expression of interest for third parties to enrol to the training modules and ask questions to EFSA. It also presents useful materials to prepare third parties affected by the new legal provisions to get prepared ahead of the entry into application of the Regulation.
For your information, the call for expression of interest has no deadline. Nevertheless, please note that the maximum number of participants per training module session is limited to 500, on a first-come-first-served basis. The sessions will be recorded and made available on EFSA's website.
Report on comprehensive salt and iodine consumption study in Latvia
I would like to share information about a recently published report on comprehensive salt and iodine consumption study in Latvia.
The purpose of the study was to evaluate salt and iodine intake in Latvian adults aged 19 to 64 by evaluating the nutritional data provided by the participants and the laboratorial analysis of 24-hour urine samples.
This study was conducted by Institute for Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment “BIOR” (Riga, Latvia) within the framework of the European Social Fund project “Complex health promotion and disease prevention measures” (ID No. 9.2.4.1/16/I/001).
Data collection was conducted between November 2018 and February 2020.
Link to report is in Latvian with summary in English.
Link to news in Institute "BIOR" webpage.
If you are interested in more details about this study, do not hesitate to contact me, so that I may network with the Latvian Focal Point and with the responsible researchers.
SARS-Cov-2 variants in mink: rapid assessment published by ECDC
Denmark has announced a cull of mink following the detection of a mutated form of SARS-Cov-2 in these animals and reports of human cases related to mink.
EFSA is supporting the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) with the rapid risk assessment they are carrying out on the situation. Scientists from both organisations are working closely together.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has published a Rapid Risk Assessment on “Detection of new SARS-CoV-2 variants related to mink”. EFSA’s animal health specialists have contributed to the assessment, which contains a number of recommendations aimed at protecting public health.
More information and link to the ECDC report can be found on EFSA’s website: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/news/sars-cov-2-variants-mink-rapid-assessment-published.
The ANSES opinion on “the possible epidemiological role of certain animal species in the maintenance and spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus” published on ANSES website may also be of interest:
The news item is in English but the opinion itself is only available in French.
EFSA – CEP PLM16 (October 2020) – access to final output
The following scientific opinions have been published on the EFSA website:
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EFSA-Q-No |
Title of the scientific opinion |
Adoption date |
Link to EFSA website |
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2019-00698 |
Safety assessment of the process Severn Valley Polymers, based on Starlinger deCON technology, used to recycle post-consumer PET into food contact materials
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27/10/2020 |
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EFSA scientific report on Avian Influenza
EFSA has published an update on the situation regarding avian influenza in the European Union.
In its most recent overview (for the period May to August 2020), EFSA urged Member States to step up surveillance and biosecurity measures to guard against possible new outbreaks of the disease this year. This warning followed the detection of outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) among wild and domestic birds in western Russia and Kazakhstan, a region known as an autumn migration route for wild water birds heading to Europe.
As the situation is evolving rapidly, EFSA, in collaboration with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Reference Laboratory on Avian Influenza, has prepared an update based on the latest available data. The aim of the update is to provide Member States and stakeholders with the most advanced scientific information related to the current outbreaks on which to base their risk assessments, preparedness and prevention measures.
In case of any questions or doubts, please contact ALPHA@efsa.europa.eu.
The report, produced with the support of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, highlights that the virus is spreading rapidly across the continent and that the risk of moving into previously unaffected European countries is high.
EFSA’s newstory on this topic may be found here; and the following is the scientific report published on the EFSA Journal here.
Existing guidance appropriate for assessment of genome editing in plants
EFSA and ECDC have published a news story on “Existing guidance appropriate for assessment of genome editing in plants”, which is available in English, French, German, Spanish and Italian:
The key messages are:
- Genome editing techniques that modify the DNA of plants do not pose more hazards than conventional breeding or techniques that introduce new DNA into a plant.
- The scientific opinion focuses on plants produced using different genome editing techniques: site-directed nuclease-1 (SDN-1), site-directed nuclease-2 techniques (SDN-2) and oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis (ODM). These differ from site-directed nucleases-3 (SDN-3), which was assessed by EFSA in 2012, because they modify a specific region of the genome without introducing new DNA.
- Experts concluded that the existing guidance for risk assessment of genetically modified plants is applicable for the evaluation of the three new techniques. However, fewer data for the risk assessment might be needed due to the absence of new DNA.
For further information on the Scientific Opinion, please contact Tommaso Raffaello.
For further information on the news story, please contact Francesca Matteucci.
EU-FORA Fellowship Programme: call for expression of interest for selection of fellows | Deadline 15/01/202
EFSA is calling for applications from future fellows for the 2021-2022 cycle of the European Food Risk Assessment (EU-FORA) Fellowship Programme.
All early to mid-career professionals in food safety interested to be trained in the field of food risk assessment while acquiring hands-on experience within leading EU organisations in the food safety area, are encouraged to apply.
For your convenience, please note that the call is open until 15 January 2021.
Interested applicants can learn more in the following links:
Fellowship Programme - EU-FORA – The European Food Risk Assessment Fellowship Programme
EFSA’s Careers – Science Professionals - EFSA European Food Risk Assessment Fellowship Programme 2021
For any further questions on the Programme, please do not hesitate to contact the EU-FORA team at EU-FORA@efsa.europa.eu
Kindly also refer to the following LinkedIn and Twitter posts:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EFSA_EU/status/1330875570071220227?s=20
We take this opportunity to also remind you that Competent Organisations can still apply to the call for proposals (Ref: GP/EFSA/ENCO/2020/04) for the selection of hosting sites until 12 February 2021.
ANSES Report
The ANSES European and International Affairs Department's 2019 Annual Report is available on the ANSES website: https://www.anses.fr/fr/system/files/ANSES-RA2019-DAEI-EN.pdf; as well as the general ANSES Annual Report 2019: https://www.anses.fr/en/content/anses-action-annual-report-2019-0.
EFSA's scientific opinion “Guidance on date marking and related food information: part 1 (date marking)”
EFSA and ECDC published a news story on “Use by’ or ‘best before’? New tool to support food operators”, which is available in English, French, German, Spanish and Italian.
EFSA has indeed developed a tool to help food business operators decide when to apply the ‘use by’ or ‘best before’ date to their products.
The tool is structured as a decision tree with a series of questions to be answered by the food business operators to help them decide whether a ‘use by’ or ‘best before’ date is required.
EFSA’s Panel on Biological Hazards also published the Scientific Opinion “Guidance on date marking and related food information: part 1 (date marking)”. Another opinion on this topic will be published in 2021. It will focus on the information given to consumers on storage conditions, time limits for consumption after opening and thawing practices.
To learn more, please follow the links to the news and the Scientific Opinion below:
News - ‘Use by’ or ‘best before’? New tool to support food operators
Scientific Opinion - Guidance on date marking and related food information: part 1 (date marking)
Social Media - Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook
For further information on the scientific opinion, please contact biohaz@efsa.europa.eu
Public consultation on the draft EFSA Scientific Committee Opinion on biological plausibility of non-monotonic dose responses and their impact on the risk assessment | Deadline 4 February 2021
EFSA has launched a public consultation on the draft EFSA Scientific Committee Opinion on biological plausibility of non-monotonic dose responses and their impact on the risk assessment.
This document assesses the biological relevance of the apparent non-monotonic dose-responses identified in the external report produced under GP/EFSA/SCER/2014/01, focusing on the in vivo datasets fulfilling most of the checkpoints of the visual/statistics-based analysis.
The scientific community, regulatory advisory bodies and other interested parties are invited to submit written comments by 4 February 2021.
In case of more information on the draft scientific opinion or in case of technical issues in the upload of the supporting files, you can contact the Unit’s functional mailbox: SCER.PublicConsult.EUS.009@efsa.europa.eu
To learn more, please follow the links to the news in brief, the open consultation and the Twitter thread below:
News - Have your say – draft opinion on non-monotonic dose-response
Public Consultation - on the draft EFSA Scientific Committee Opinion on biological plausibility of non-monotonic dose responses and their impact on the risk assessment
Open call for tenders on roadmaps for action on mCRA, ERA and NAMs | Deadline 26 February, 2021
EFSA has just published an open call for tenders (OC/EFSA/ED/2020/1 - link) consisting of three lots, for the development of the first three roadmaps for action on:
- Lot 1: Building a European Partnership for next generation systems-based environmental risk assessment (Link)
- Lot 2: New approach methodologies in risk assessment (Link)
- Lot 3: Risk assessment of combined exposure to multiple chemicals (Link)
Background
The overall purpose of this tender is to deliver roadmaps for action and provide recommendations for future multi-annual, multi-partner studies or projects for each lot building on EFSA’s vision and supporting EFSA’s preparedness for future risk assessment requirements and help to prevent possible divergence on sensitive matters. EFSA prioritised four scientific themes for 2021 in line with its consideration on the future of science and EFSA’s 2027 strategic development. The delivery of a 4th roadmap for action on “Artificial intelligence for evidence management in risk assessment” will be outsourced using a reopening competition through the EFSA Management Consultancy framework contract.
The call is now open until 26 February 2021 (14.30 CET) and has a maximum budget for financial offers of EUR 500.000 per lot (i.e., per roadmap).
In case of questions, please contact EFSAprocurement@efsa.europa.eu.
Social research at EFSA: second Reputation barometer study 2020 published
The Reputation Barometer study has been published on the EFSA website.
This survey-based tool is designed to better understand the expectations and perceptions of the institutional partners and stakeholders with whom EFSA interacts on a regular basis. It provides important insights into the approach taken to working with them and how to improve it.
Please follow the link to the dedicated web page where to find the report and more specific information:
Corporate Publications - Reputation barometer
Report - Reputation Barometer 2.0: State of EFSA's reputation and lessons for future monitoring
REMINDER - Open Call for Proposals - Selection of Hosting Sites for EU-FORA Programme
It is still possible to apply to be a hosting site for the next cycle 2021-2022 of EFSA’s European Food Risk Assessment (EU-FORA) Fellowship Programme by 12 February 2021.
Please note that the scientific reports of the work of fellows from the previous cycle have recently been published in a special issue of the EFSA Journal.
For any further questions, do not hesitate to contact the EU_FORA team at EU-FORA@efsa.europa.eu.
REMINDER: EU-FORA Fellowship Programme: call for expression of interest for selection of fellows | Deadline 15/01/2021
It is still possible to apply for the next cycle of the European Food Risk Assessment (EU-FORA) Fellowship Programme, a key initiative for building the EU’s scientific assessment capacity and knowledge community.
The deadline for applying to the fellowship is 15 January 2021.
EU-FORA is aimed at early to mid-career professionals from EU and EFTA countries, giving them the opportunity to widen their knowledge and hands-on experience in food safety risk assessment. At the hosting sites, they will be fully integrated, participate in the organisation’s work, gain first-hand experience, and increase their knowledge of many scientific aspects relevant to food safety risk assessment.
Please note that the scientific reports of the work of fellows from the previous cycle have recently been published in a special issue of the EFSA Journal.
For more information on the programme and how to apply, go to the EU-FORA dedicated webpage.
For any further questions, do not hesitate to contact the EU_FORA team at EU-FORA@efsa.europa.eu.
EU-FORA EFSA Journal special issue is out
This is to inform you that the EU-FORA Programme series 3 2020-2021, the third special issue of the EFSA Journal devoted to EFSA’s fellowship programme (EU-FORA), has been published!
This year has been particularly challenging for EU-FORA. The global pandemic is not alien to the Programme and it has demanded extra-commitment from fellows and supervisors. The quality and relevance of the reports are good examples. New knowledge was generated in the area, as shown by the publication of articles in scientific journals...and there's more to come!
Would you like to know more? Enjoy your reading here and remember that all EU-FORA Programme Series can also be accessed through the EU-FORA dedicated webspace.
EU-FORA Programme
Kindly note that fellows (and hosting sites) can still apply to the EU-FORA programme.
Find out more on how both benefit from the matching procedure in place: https://twitter.com/EFSA_EU/status/1341294956770635776?s=20
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6749972445899436032
Do not hesitate to disseminate and encourage potential applications!
Kind Reminder | Public consultation: EFSA calls on risk communication experts and specialists for feedback | Deadline 17/01/2021
This is a gentle reminder to please send your feedback on EFSA’s open consultation on a draft scientific report on Technical assistance in the field of risk communication. This document will support the European Commission to implement a new provision of the 2019 ‘Transparency Regulation’ 2019/1381: a General Plan for Risk Communication in the area of EU food safety. Feedback and input from academic experts and from national and international partners are essential to ensure the quality of this output so that the General Plan for Risk Communication has a sound scientific basis in theory and best practice.
We are counting on your support for input and/or to remind the relevant networks to send relevant feedback by the deadline of 17 January 2021.
For further questions, do not hesitate to contact the specific Unit’s functional mailbox: socialscience@efsa.europa.eu
ANSES International Symposium "Credibility of scientific expertise and public decision". New challenges for health risk governance in a changing world
ANSES would like to invite you to the International Symposium organised by ANSES on "Credibility of scientific expertise and public decision". New challenges for health risk governance in a changing world.
The symposium will be held in January and February.
Program and registration are available following this link: http://ptolemee.com/ANSES2021/index.html
EU-FORA fellow selection: upcoming deadline
Only a week left to apply as a fellow for the next cycle of EU-FORA!
It is still possible to apply to be a fellow for the next cycle of the EU-FORA Programme, by the 15th January.
Please widely disseminate this information and encourage applications among early to mid-career professionals!
Find out more reasons to apply to this unique opportunity by listening to a previous fellow on LinkedIn!
For any further questions on the programme, please find more information in the dedicated webpage. To apply: here!
Do not hesitate to contact EFSA at EU-FORA@efsa.europa.eu, should you need additional information.
Thanking you in advance for your support.
Transparency Regulation: What you need to know
The Transparency Regulation will become applicable on 27 March, further strengthening the EU food safety system, transforming EFSA’s role as Europe’s risk assessor and bringing citizens and stakeholders closer to our work.
It is crucial that stakeholders, partners and citizens across Europe are aware of these changes and understand the benefits they bring.
- Press release - Transparency in risk assessment: a new era begins – which sets out the main changes and provides background information;
- Links to a video animation and a training programme EFSA has rolled out to help stakeholders adapt to the new arrangements;
- Webstream link to EU & EFSA event on 30 March to celebrate the application of the Transparency Regulation;
- FAQs from the European Commission.
ONE Conference 2022
The first One EU 2022 Scientific Conference will happen on 21-24 June 2022.
Save the date and connect with us - https://www.one2022.eu/
Deadline submission of abstracts: 15 September 2021.
EFSA's scientific opinion "Safety of dried yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva) as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283
EFSA published a scientific opinion on the first completed assessment of a proposed insect-derived food product.
Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on dried yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva) as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283.
Novel food applications are varied and many types of scientific expertise are needed to assess them.
EFSA’s safety evaluations support EU and national decision-makers who authorise these products for the European market.
To learn more, please click on the following links:
NEWS - Edible insects: the science of novel food evaluations
SOCIAL MEDIA
TOPIC PAGE - Novel food
SCIENTIFIC OPINION - Safety of dried yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva) as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283
In case of any questions or enquiries on the opinion, please contact nda@efsa.europa.eu
EFSA’s scientific advice to inform harmonised front-of-pack labelling and restriction of claims on foods
EFSA acknowledged receipt of a new mandate from the European Commission for scientific advice to support the development of a future EU-wide system for front-of-pack nutrition labelling and inform the setting of conditions for using nutrition and health claims on foods.
It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- EFSA’s nutrition scientists will provide scientific advice to support the development of a future EU-wide system for front-of-pack nutrition labelling and inform the setting of conditions for using nutrition and health claims on foods.
- EFSA’s advice will cover: i) nutrients of public health importance for Europeans, ii) important food groups in the diets of European populations and subgroups, and iii) criteria to guide the choice of nutrients and other non-nutrient components of food for nutrient profiling. EFSA was not asked to develop a nutrient profiling model or advise on current profiling models already in use for different purposes.
For further information on scientific issues, please contact Leng Heng (Leng.Heng@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Anthony Smith (anthony.smith@efsa.europa.eu).
SARS-CoV-2 in mink: recommendations to improve monitoring
EFSA and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) published a Scientific report on “Monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 infection in mustelids”, together with a news story “SARS-CoV-2 in mink: recommendations to improve monitoring ”. It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- Early detection of SARS-CoV-2 (coronavirus) should be a priority objective for monitoring activities at mink farms in the European Union.
- All mink farms should be considered at risk from SARS-CoV-2.
- The new report from EFSA and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) proposes options for monitoring strategies that will help to prevent and control spread of the disease.
For further information on the Scientific report, please contact Alessandro Broglia (Alessandro.Broglia@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Simon Terry (Simon.Terry@efsa.europa.eu).
Bee Health and Pollen - External report and public consultation
EFSA published the external scientific report: “Pollen supplements and substitutes in the EU feed market: a product/market survey for bees and other animal species” (Haefeker, 2021)
The report includes outcomes and recommendations from a survey conducted to overview the presence of pollen supplements and substitutes for bees and other animal species in the EU. The survey aimed also to serve as input for the regulatory risk assessment of genetically modified feed by the EFSA GMO Panel. If you need more information about the report, please contact GMO_secretariat_applications@efsa.europa.eu. View the external scientific report
Joint ECDC-EFSA Rapid Outbreak Assessment on a multi-country outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infections presumably linked to consumption of poultry products
EFSA and ECDC published a joint rapid outbreak assessment on “Multi-country outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis sequence type (ST)11 infections linked to poultry products in the EU/EEA and the United Kingdom”.
For further information on the Scientific Report, please contact Eleonora Sarno (Eleonora.SARNO@efsa.europa.eu)
Campylobacter and Salmonella cases stable in EU
EFSA and ECDC published the European Union One Health 2019 Zoonoses Report, accompanied by a news story “Campylobacter and Salmonella cases stable in EU”. It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- The number of reported human cases of illness caused by Campylobacter and Salmonella bacteria across Europe appears to be stabilising over the past five years, according to the latest report on zoonotic diseases by EFSA and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
- Campylobacteriosis, which has been the most reported gastrointestinal disease in EU since 2005, affected more than 220,000 people in 2019. Salmonellosis was the second most reported zoonotic disease in the EU, affecting about 88,000 people.
- Of the 66,113 samples of ready-to-eat foods – foods that do not need to be cooked prior consumption – 0.3% tested positive for Salmonella. Of the 191,181 non ready-to-eat samples, 1.5% were positive. Eighteen of the 26 Member States reporting on Salmonella control programmes in poultry populations met all the reduction targets, compared to 14 in 2018.
For further information on the Scientific report, please contact Frank Boelaert (Frank.Boelaert@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Francesca Matteucci (francesca.matteucci@efsa.europa.eu).
African swine fever: devising an ‘exit strategy’ for affected countries
EFSA published a Scientific Opinion on “ASF Exit Strategy: Providing cumulative evidence of the absence of African swine fever virus circulation in wild boar populations using standard surveillance measures”, accompanied by a news story “African swine fever: devising an ‘exit strategy’ for affected countries”. It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- EFSA has devised surveillance strategies to help countries affected by African swine fever determine when the virus has stopped circulating among their wild boar populations.
- EFSA recommends an “exit strategy” comprising a period of routine surveillance of wild boar (screening) followed by a shorter period of intense surveillance (confirmation).
- The scientific opinion gives practical examples of how to apply the strategy to both large and small affected areas.
For further information on the Scientific Opinion, please contact Sofie Dhollander (Sofie.Dhollander@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Simon Terry (Simon.Terry@efsa.europa.eu).
Publication of the European Union One Health 2019 Zoonoses Report
Please be informed of the publication in the EFSA Journal of the European Union One Health 2019 Zoonoses Report.
This report of the EFSA and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) presents the results of zoonoses monitoring activities carried out in 2019 in 36 European countries (28 Member States (MS) and eight non-MS).
For further information on the scientific report, please contact zoonoses@efsa.europa.eu
SafeConsume_summary on risk communication policy surveys
The SafeConsume project’s surveys about the European food safety risk communication practices was carried out in 2018. 76 organisations participated in the survey targeting official bodies conducting risk communication, while 42 NGOs took part in the second survey.
If you have any questions about the surveys’ outcomes or the project, please do not hesitate to contact: Gyula Kasza (kaszagy@nebih.gov.hu) or Tekla Izsó (izsot@nebih.gov.hu).
For more information on the results of SafeConsume, please subscribe to the newsletter of the project, for which you can sign up via the following link:
https://safeconsume.us4.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=2bff9f6f0861b11ad61d21195&id=f8aba48f6b
Launch of the video summary of the International EuroCigua Workshop
The Spanish Food Safety and Nutrition Agency (AESAN), as coordinator of the EuroCigua project aiming to characterize the risk of ciguatera in the European Union, has elaborated a scientific video about this emerging poisoning. The video summarizes the International EuroCigua Workshop, organized by AESAN, also compiles the main findings obtained during the project as well as the conclusions reached and future actions to continue the research on ciguatera.
The video is available here.
For more information on the project, you are more than welcome to visit its webpage.
Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) - ''Guidance on Identifying Appropriate Peer Reviewed Scientific Publications”
The FSAI has published a new document on “Guidance on Identifying Appropriate Peer Reviewed Scientific Publications”.
This document helps food businesses to understand how to assess peer-reviewed journals so that they can be confident that they are using the best science available for their food products.
This document has also been posted on the FSAI LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram pages.
EFSA advises food suppliers on information for consumers
EFSA published the scientific opinion "Guidance on date marking and related food information: part 2 (food information)". The scientific opinion includes a decision tree that assists food suppliers in deciding whether it is appropriate to give consumers other instructions in addition to the ‘use by’ or ‘best before’ dates (figure 2, page 18).
The scientific opinion was accompanied by a news story “EFSA advises food suppliers on information for consumers". We have also produced an infographic on how to thaw food safely.
Please note that the news story, the decision tree and the infographic are available also in French, German, Italian and Spanish.
You can find EFSA's social media activities following the below links.
Resistance levels still high in bacteria causing foodborne infections
EFSA and ECDC have published the European Union summary report on Antimicrobial Resistance in zoonotic and indicator bacteria from humans, animals and food in 2018/2019. It is accompanied by a news story “Resistance levels still high in bacteria causing foodborne infections", available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish and the updated data visualisation. This interactive tool gives an overview of the situation of antimicrobial resistance in humans, animals and food across the EU.
If you need more information about the report, please contact zoonoses@efsa.europa.eu.
Pesticides in food: latest figures published
EFSA published the 2019 European Union report on pesticide residues in food, accompanied by a news story “Pesticides in food: latest figures published”. It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- A total of 96,302 samples were analysed in 2019, 96.1% of which fell within legally permitted levels.
- For the subset of 12,579 samples analysed as part of the EU-coordinated control programme (EUCP), 98% were within legal limits.
- EFSA carried out a dietary risk assessment which suggested that the commodities analysed in 2019 are unlikely to pose a concern for consumer health.
- The results of the coordinated programme are available on EFSA’s website as browsable charts and graphs, making the data more accessible to non-specialists.
For further information on the Scientific report, please contact Paula Medina (Paula.Medina@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Simon Terry (Simon.Terry@efsa.europa.eu).
African swine fever: risks from feed, bedding and transport
EFSA published a Scientific Opinion on “Ability of different matrices to transmit African swine fever virus”, accompanied by a news story “African swine fever: risks from feed, bedding and transport”. It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- EFSA’s advice looks at the risk of ASF being introduced to non-affected regions of the EU via pathways such as feed, bedding materials and empty pig transport vehicles returning from affected areas.
- The opinion concludes that the potential for transmission through these pathways is lower than for several others but a risk cannot be completely ruled out.
- EFSA recommends strict adherence to decontamination and storage processes for all products moved from ASF-affected areas to unaffected areas.
For further information on the Scientific Opinion, please contact Andrea Gervelmeyer (Andrea.Gervelmeyer@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Simon Terry (Simon.Terry@efsa.europa.eu).
EFSA reports set to inspire future risk communications in Europe
EFSA published four new reports designed to inform the future General Plan for Risk Communication:
- Scientific report of EFSA on Technical assistance in the field of risk communication
- Mapping the coordination and cooperation mechanisms of risk communication on feed/food safety in the EU
- Catalogue of Communication Tools and Dissemination Guidelines: Benchmarking current practice in EU and Members State bodies
- Engagement Toolkit: Methods, tips and best practices to design effective participatory processes
Full details and links to the reports can be found HERE on the EFSA website.
Publication of the editorial "EFSA's expertise supports One Health policy needs"
The editorial “EFSA's expertise supports One Health policy needs” has been published here.
In the editorial, the importance to cooperate beyond scientific disciplines is highlighted. The need for One Health approach to face global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and COVID-19 and deliver robust scientific advice for informed policy decisions is underlined.
Three short interviews to our Chief Scientist and Scientific Coordinator have also been published:
https://twitter.com/EFSA_EU/status/1392095734489657344?s=20
https://twitter.com/EFSA_EU/status/1392064724586700800?s=20
https://twitter.com/EFSA_EU/status/1392107489035014145?s=20
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6797897928133423104
Protecting bees: a new way forward for risk assessment
EFSA published a Scientific Opinion on “A Systems-based approach to the environmental risk assessment of multiple stressors in honey bees”, accompanied by a news story “Protecting bees: a new way forward for risk assessment”. It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- EFSA is proposing a new approach to the environmental risk assessment (ERA) of honey bees.
- The scientific opinion sets out an integrated, holistic framework for assessing the combined effects of multiple stressors on honey bees, known as MUST-B.
- At the heart of the framework is a model based on a bee colony simulator, called ApisRAM, which assesses either single or multiple pesticides in interaction with other stressors and factors.
- ApisRAM is still in development, but it will be ready for use in pesticide risk assessment in the next two or three years.
For further information on the Scientific Opinion, please contact Agnes Rortais (Agnes.Rortais@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the press release, please contact Simon Terry (simon.terry@efsa.europa.eu).
Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive
EFSA published a Scientific Opinion on “Safety assessment of the food additive Titanium dioxide (E171)”, accompanied by a news story “Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive”. It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- Taking into account all available scientific studies and data, the Panel concluded that titanium dioxide can no longer be considered safe as a food additive.
- The assessment was conducted following a rigorous methodology and taking into consideration many thousands of studies, including new scientific evidence and data on nanoparticles.
- Although the evidence for general toxic effects was not conclusive, on the basis of the new data and strengthened methods the panel could not rule out a concern for genotoxicity and consequently could not establish a safe level for daily intake of the food additive.
For further information on the Scientific Opinion, please contact Camilla Smeraldi (Camilla.Smeraldi@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Silvia Bellocchio (Silvia.Bellocchio@efsa.europa.eu).
EFSA webpage on COVID-19 and food
Following MS suggestions to have an EFSA dedicated webpage with updated data on COVID-19 and food, EFSA published the following page: EFSA and COVID-19.
The page (in EN, DE, FR, ES and IT) explains EFSA’s involvement on the topic and includes some questions and answers on SARS-CoV-2 and food, providing links to relevant pages.
African swine fever and outdoor farming of pigs
EFSA published a Scientific Opinion on “African swine fever and outdoor farming of pigs”, accompanied by a news story “African swine fever: risks from outdoor pig farms”. It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- EFSA has assessed the risk of African swine fever spreading through outdoor pig farms.
- Outdoor pig farms carry a substantial risk of introducing and spreading ASF, but installing single or double solid fences on all outdoor pig farms in areas of the EU where ASF is present could reduce this risk by at least 50%.
- Derogations from the current restrictions on outdoor pig farming in ASF-affected areas could be considered on a case-by-case basis if these measures have been implemented.
For further information on the Scientific Opinion, please contact Andrea Gervelmeyer (Andrea.Gervelmeyer@efsa.europa.eu).
For further information on the news story, please contact Simon Terry (Simon.Terry@efsa.europa.eu).
Scientific Opinion on AMR and the environment
EFSA published a Scientific Opinion on “Role played by the environment in the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through the food chain”.
The main highlights are:
- Fertilisers of faecal origin, irrigation, and water are the most significant sources of AMR in plant-based food and/or aquaculture. In terrestrial animal production, potential sources are feed, humans, water, air or dust, soil, wildlife, rodents, arthropods, and equipment.
- For the first time, EFSA experts have assessed the role of food producing environments in the emergence and spread of AMR. They identified the main sources of AMR bacteria and genes, although current data do not allow quantification of the specific contribution each of them makes to this global problem.
To learn more, please click on the links to the opinion below.
NEWSROOM - Antimicrobial resistance and the food production environment: sources and control options
SCIENTIFIC OPINION on the - Role played by the environment in the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through the food chain
Scientific opinion on titanium dioxide
EFSA published its safety assessment of Titanium Dioxide as feed additive. Experts have concluded that titanium dioxide can no longer be considered safe when used as an additive in animal feed. The assessment by EFSA’s Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) follows the conclusion reached by EFSA’s Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF) that the same compound can no longer be considered safe when used as a food additive.
Please find more information here.
EFSA – CEP PLM (May 2021) – access to final outputs
Please be informed that the following scientific opinions have been published on the EFSA website:
|
EFSA-Q-No |
Title of the scientific opinion |
Adoption date |
Link to EFSA website |
|
2020-00432 |
Safety assessment of the process Martogg Group, based on EREMA Advanced technology, used to recycle post-consumer PET into food contact materials |
6 May 21 |
|
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2020-00750 |
Safety assessment of the process Drava International, based on Starlinger deCON technology, used to recycle post-consumer PET into food contact materials |
04 May 21 |
|
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2021-00054 |
Safety assessment of the process ISAP Packaging, based on Starlinger deCON technology, used to recycle post-consumer PET into food contact materials |
04 May 21 |
|
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2021-00063 |
Safety assessment of the process ROL, based on Starlinger deCON technology, used to recycle post-consumer PET into food contact materials |
04 May 21 |
Use of antibiotics in animals is decreasing
EFSA, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) published a Scientific report on “Antimicrobial consumption and resistance in bacteria from humans and animals”, accompanied by a news story “Use of antibiotics in animals is decreasing”. It is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
The key messages are:
- Use of antibiotics has decreased and is now lower in food-producing animals than in humans
- The significant fall in antibiotic use in food-producing animals suggests that the measures taken at country level to reduce use are proving to be effective.
- The picture in the EU is diverse – the situation varies significantly by country and by antibiotic class. For example, aminopenicillins, 3rd- and 4th-generation cephalosporins and quinolones are used more in humans than in food-producing animals, while polymyxins (colistin) and tetracyclines are used more in food-producing animals than in humans.
For further information on the Scientific report, please contact Pierre-Alexandre.BELOEIL@efsa.europa.eu
For further information on the news story, please contact Francesca.Matteucci@efsa.europa.eu
ONE Conference 2022: Opening of Registration & Video Contest launched
We are pleased to inform you that registration for the ONE Conference 2022 officially opened on January 31. The deadline to register for on-site participation is 29 April. Registration for online participation will remain open during the conference. The registration form as well as the updated conference programme are available on the ONE Conference website.
YouTube Video Contest
To give participants of the ONE Conference 2022 a sneak peek into the research that will be presented at the conference, we have launched a Video Contest running on EFSA’s YouTube channel from 1 to 28 February. Abstract authors are showcasing their work/research in short videos for the chance to win a trip to Brussels to deliver a live pitch at the conference in June.
EFSA Scientific Panels/Committee Renewal Call 2023.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a call for expressions of interest (Ref. EFSA/E/2023/01) for the renewal of its Scientific Panels and the Scientific Committee in 2024.
This opportunity is open to scientific experts with relevant scientific expertise and a motivation to contribute to the protec
- Poster Panel renewal.pdf
- EFSApanels_Become an EFSA expert.ppt
- EFSApanels_Social media card.png
- Panel Renewal Testimonial Video
- Panel Renewal Animation Video
EFSA TRAINEESHIP IS NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS:
The call is open from 4 April to 15 May 2023 to EU and non-EU candidates from all over the world.
Thank you in advance for your attention and contribution, if you have any questions on the traineeship call please contact recruitment@efsa.europa.eu.
Contact Us
Need further information or assistance?
Feel free to send us an email - rad@mccaa.org.mt or give us a call at +356 23952000.
