EFSA focal points
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has identified an individual in each of the Member States to act as the focal point responsible for ensuring the exchange of food safety information between the Authority and national stakeholders.
The focal point will act as an interface between EFSA and the different national food safety authorities, research institutes, consumers and other EFSA-related stakeholders.
EFSA is the keystone of European Union safety risk assessment for food and animal feed. It provides independent scientific advice and clear communication on existing and emerging risks, working in close collaboration with national authorities and in open consultation with its stakeholders.
Member States advise the EFSA on scientific matters and on its work programme and priorities through the EFSA Advisory Forum. The forum also helps address emerging risk issues as early as possible. Andrew Wadge, the Agency's Chief Scientist, is the UK's member of the Advisory Forum.
Each national Focal Point feeds into the Advisory Forum and help promote stronger networking and cooperation. They will also help build networks, raise EFSA's profile and ensure the exchange of scientific information between EFSA and the Member States.
The UK Focal Point is Alisdair Wotherspoon from the Chief Scientist’s team and the deputy focal point is Dr Siân Thomas, who is also in the Chief Scientist's team.
You can contact the FSA Focal Point by emailing: efsa.focalpoint@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk.
Tasks of the UK Focal Point
To set up and further develop national networks.
To support the exchange of scientific information between EFSA and Member States.
To support the establishment and maintenance of a common database of national scientific experts.
To raise EFSA’s visibility in the Member States.
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EFSA newsletters
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) publishes newsletters covering all aspects of its work. The newsletters report on the authority’s work relating to plants, animals and food.
Do you want to sign up as an EFSA expert?
In June 2008 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) announced it will be launching a database of scientific experts to assist with its work on scientific risk assessment. The organisation is inviting applications from experts in food and feed safety, nutrition, animal welfare and plant protection and health.