ABSTRACT
In September 2019, the European Institutions adopted Regulation (EU) 2019/1381 to increase the transparency and sustainability of the EU risk assessment in the food chain. This Regulation, which shall apply since 27 March 2021 whereas specific sections (i.e. Articles 1(2) and 1(3)) will apply later, introduces several innovations which amend Regulation (EC) 178/2002 and several other regulations to overcome:
the negative perceptions of some citizens based on the fact that EFSA’s evaluations of authorization dossiers are essentially based on studies, data and information generated (and paid for) by the applicants for the authorization;
the fact that EFSA’s ability to provide high-level scientific opinions is adversely impacted by factors such as:
difficulties encountered to attract new experts due to, among others, insufficient recognition for the scientific careers and financial compensation for the experts and their employers;
EFSA Panels originate mainly from six Member States, and difficulties are encountered by EFSA in receiving sufficient support by many Member States to its scientific work (e.g. via ad hoc studies and data provision);
improving and clarifying the rules on transparency, especially with regard to the scientific studies supporting the risk assessment, also through the establishment of the Union Register of Studies;
increasing the reliability, objectivity and independence of studies used by EFSA in its risk assessment, in particular, in the framework of authorization dossiers, also through the adoption of verification studies;
improving the governance and strengthening the scientific cooperation and involvement of the Member States in EFSA work; and
addressing the limitations affecting the long-term scientific capacity of EFSA and its ability to maintain a high level of scientific expertise across the different areas of the agri-food sector, also taking into account the related financial and budgetary aspects;
developing a more effective and transparent risk communication with the public in collaboration with the Member States, addressing the objectives, the general principles and the general plan.
