mutation
Description:
A permanent, typically negative, change in the genetic material in a cell which, in most cases, can be passed onto any offspring
Context:
A mutation is a change in the DNA of a cell. Some mutations are harmless, but others can affect how cells work and may increase the risk of diseases like cancer.
EFSA uses information about mutations to assess the safety of food-related substances, such as additives, contaminants, and pesticides. By studying whether a substance can cause mutations, EFSA can evaluate its potential health risks, set safe exposure limits, and provide guidance to protect consumers from harmful genetic effects.
Related topics
Acrylamide Bisphenol A and other bisphenols Chemical contaminants in food and feed Chemical mixtures Chemicals in food Dioxins and PCBs Food additives Genetically modified animals Genetically modified organisms Glyphosate Metals as contaminants in food New genomic techniques Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) Process contaminants