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Focal Points and the European Food Safety Authority

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is the keystone of European Union (EU) risk assessment regarding food and feed safety. In close collaboration with national authorities and in open consultation with its stakeholders, EFSA provides independent scientific advice and effective communication on existing and emerging risks.

The EFSA Advisory Forum (AF) connects EFSA with the national food safety authorities of the EU Member States. The AF members represent each national body responsible for risk assessment in the EU. The Forum is at the heart of EFSA’s collaborative approach to working with the EU Member States. Through it, EFSA and the Member States can join forces in addressing European risk assessment and risk communications issues. Members use the Forum to advise EFSA on scientific matters, its work programme and priorities, and to address emerging risk issues as early as possible.

In 2008 EFSA established the Focal Point (FP) network. FPs act as an interface between EFSA and risk managers, food safety authorities, research institutes, consumers and other stakeholders at national level. The FPs will ensure exchange of information, and will provide advice and support to the AF member. The composition of each FP is decided at national level.

Role of the Focal Points

The role of FPs is to keep EFSA and AF members informed on national risk assessments, scientific developments and communications in the areas of EFSA’s remit.

More information about the role of FPs is available in the EFSA Scientific Cooperation Roadmap 2014 - 2016.

Links to EFSA