metabolomics
The study of an organism's metabolic state through the systematic analysis of its metabolites within cells or biological fluids (e.g. blood, urine)
In food safety, metabolomics is the study of all small molecules (metabolites) in a food, body, or biological sample to understand how substances affect biological processes. It shows how nutrients, contaminants, or chemicals are broken down and how they influence health.
EFSA uses metabolomics to better understand the effects of chemicals, additives, or contaminants in food. By analysing metabolite patterns, EFSA can detect early signs of toxicity, identify how substances are processed in the body, and improve the accuracy of risk assessments. This helps set safe intake levels and supports decisions to protect consumer health.