EFSA focal points
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 the national food safety authorities via the EFSA Advisory Forum. Through the forum, Member States advise EFSA on scientific matters as well as on EFSA's work programme and priorities. 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.
In each Member State, an EFSA Focal Point has been set up to create an operational newtwork that will assist the Advisory Forum in its work and help promote stronger networking and cooperation. The Focal Points support their forum members in building networks, raising EFSA's visibility and ensuring the exchange of scientific information between EFSA and the Member States. The UK Focal Point is Alisdair Wotherspoon and his deputy Sian Thomas of 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 with, for example, risk managers, food safety authorities, research institutes, universities, and national stakeholders.
To support the exchange of scientific information between EFSA and Member States, including important risk assessment activities, results of relevant scientific research projects within the country, work programmes of competent authorities, and requests for specific information.
To support the establishment and maintenance of a common database of national scientific experts, in order to support the activities carried out by EFSA's Scientific Panels and working groups, as well as similar panels and working groups in the Member States
To raise EFSA’s visibility in the Member States, for example by disseminating printed material such as brochures, by setting up web pages on Focal Point activities, or by presenting at conferences and workshops.
Find out more
Becoming a competent organisation for EFSA
EFSA has initiated the process of updating the list of competent organizations operating in the fields of EFSA’s mission according to article 36 of the European Parliament and of the Council Regulation 178/20021 and article 2, paragraph 4 of Commission Regulation 2230/20042.