Publication of Regulation (EU) 2019/1391

Regulation (EU) 2019/1381 on the transparency and sustainability of EU risk assessment in the food chain was published in the EU OJ of 6 September 2019.

This Regulation amends the general food legislation (Regulation EC 178/2002), but also 8 other texts relating to GMOs, feed additives, smoke flavourings, materials in contact with food, additives, food enzymes and flavourings and plant protection products and novel foods.

This regulation aims to:

– ensure greater transparency, by allowing citizens to have automatic and immediate access to all safety information submitted by industry as part of the risk assessment process

– create a common European register of commissioned studies, to ensure that companies applying for authorisation submit all relevant information and do not subtract adverse studies

– allow additional studies to be commissioned by the European Food Safety Authority at the request of the Commission and to be financed from the EU budget

– provide for consultation with stakeholders and the public on studies submitted by industry to support product authorisation applications

– strengthen the participation of Member States in the governance structure of the European Food Safety Authority and its scientific panels

– strengthen risk communication to citizens, with joint actions to strengthen consumer confidence by increasing public awareness and understanding and by better explaining the scientific advice provided by the European Food Safety Authority and the basis for risk management decisions

It shall apply from 27 March 2021.