Press Release: European Food Authority: Political agreement in Council

On 28 June 2001 David Byrne, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, welcomed the political agreement in the Council of Ministers on the Commission proposal setting up the European Food Authority (EFA) and laying down general principles of EU food law. The proposal is the cornerstone of the EU food safety strategy. The Council supports the Commission's integrated approach to safety along the entire food chain and a broad remit for the activities of the Authority. The core task of the European Food Authority will be to provide independent scientific advice and support, and to set up a network for close co-operation with similar bodies in Member States. It will assess risks related to the food chain and give the general public information about food risks.