soil degradation
Description:
A change in soil quality which adversely affects its ability to nourish or support the ecosystem
Context:
In food safety, soil degradation refers to the decline in soil quality caused by factors like erosion, loss of nutrients, contamination, or changes in soil structure. Poor soil can reduce crop yields, affect the nutritional quality of food, and increase the risk of contaminants entering the food chain.
EFSA considers soil degradation when assessing the safety of foods and feed, particularly for contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides that can accumulate in crops. By understanding soil health, EFSA can provide scientific advice to reduce risks and support sustainable agricultural practices that protect both the environment and food safety.