chemical hazard
Health hazard resulting from exposure to a chemical; for example, irritation, burns, carcinogenicity
In food safety, a chemical hazard is a chemical substance in food that can cause harm to human health if consumed at unsafe levels. Chemical hazards can come from many sources, such as contaminants from the environment, pesticide residues, food additives used incorrectly, natural toxins, or substances formed during food processing.
EFSA identifies and assesses chemical hazards as part of its risk assessment work. It evaluates their toxicity, how people may be exposed through food, and whether current levels are safe over short- or long-term consumption. Based on this analysis, EFSA provides scientific advice to support the setting of safety limits, regulatory decisions, and measures to reduce risks, helping to protect public health.