Who we are
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is an independent European agency funded by the EU budget that operates separately from the European Commission, European Parliament and EU Member States.
EFSA Management Board
EFSA is governed by an independent Management Board whose members are appointed to act in the public interest and do not represent any government, organisation or sector. The 15-member Board sets EFSA’s budget, approves the annual work programme and is responsible for ensuring that EFSA works effectively and co-operates successfully with partner organisations across the EU and beyond.
Executive Director
EFSA’s Executive Director, currently Catherine Geslain-Lanéelle (appointed in July 2006 for a five year term), is the legal representative of the Authority. She is responsible for all operational matters, staffing issues and drawing up the annual work programme in consultation with the European Commission, European Parliament and EU Member States.
EFSA Scientific Panels and Directorates
EFSA’s Scientific Committee and Panels deliver scientific advice for Europe’s decision-makers in the areas of food and feed safety, nutrition, animal health and welfare, plant protection and plant health. Within its remit, EFSA also assesses environmental safety. A growing part of the Authority’s work relates to the safety assessment of regulated products, substances and claims submitted for authorisation in the EU, thereby supporting agrofood innovation.
EFSA’s Scientific Panels are composed of highly qualified, independent scientific experts with a thorough knowledge of risk assessment. All members are appointed through an open selection procedure on the basis of proven scientific excellence. The Scientific Committee and the Scientific Panels are supported by EFSA staff from three scientific directorates.
EFSA monitors and analyses information and data on biological hazards, chemical contaminants, food consumption and emerging risks. These areas of work are carried out by EFSA’s scientific units supported by working groups and networks. The Authority also supports the development of risk assessment approaches.
Advisory Forum
EFSA’s Advisory Forum connects EFSA with the national food safety authorities of all 27 EU Member States. Iceland and Norway, with observers from Switzerland and the European Commission. The Forum is at the heart of EFSA’s collaborative approach to working with the EU Member States. It constitutes a mechanism for exchange of information on potential risks and the pooling of knowledge. Members use the Forum to advise EFSA on scientific matters, its work programme and priorities, and to address emerging risk issues as early as possible. The Advisory Forum members are supported by Focal Points acting as interfaces between EFSA and the national food safety authorities and facilitating outreach in the Member States.
