Food safety

The European Union works to make sure that all the food we eat in Europe is safe. EU rules set high standards for how food is produced, processed, transported and sold. Every step of the food chain is covered, so that food reaching our plates is both safe and traceable back to its source.

The EU’s food-safety laws are based on scientific advice from the European Food Safety Authority, which identifies and assesses risks in our food, whether from bacteria, chemicals or other hazards.

To make sure these standards are respected, the European Commission and national authorities carry out regular checks and inspections. If a problem arises, such as contaminated products, the EU’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) allows countries to quickly share information and remove unsafe products from the market.

The EU also uses digital tools such as TRACES to track animals and food products across borders, preventing the spread of diseases and keeping trade safe.

The EU also makes sure consumers have the right information. Clear food-labelling rules mean you can see what’s in your food — from allergens to nutritional values and where it comes from. If a food-safety incident occurs, authorities act fast to inform the public and coordinate recalls when needed.

Through its trade agreements and global cooperation, the EU promotes the same strict food-safety standards internationally. In this way, European consumers can trust that the food they buy, wherever it comes from, is safe.