Byrne aims to make safety the key ingredient in food
On 8 November 2000 from 5 to 7pm (CET) David Byrne, the European Commissioner for Health and Consumer protection invites Europeans to participate in an live Internet discussion entitled 'making safety the key ingredient of our food - introducing the European Food Authority proposal.' 'The proposals for a European Food Authority and for a General Food Law are the key building blocks in the Commission; strategy for food safety,' explains the Commission. With the European Parliament and Council expected to decide on future food policy in Europe very soon, Mr Byrne has decided to discuss the Commission's proposals live on the Internet on the same day the Commission is tabling them. The Commissioner aims to make safety the most important ingredient in food, reports the Commission. The Commissioner will kick off the discussions by explaining how he thinks he can do this and will then call for feedback on his proposals. Some of the questions to be raised may include: - How will the European Food Authority assure that Europe has the highest standards of food safety? - What will be the tasks of the Food Authority? - How is the independence of scientific advice ensured? - What is the role of the Authority on communication and dialogue with consumers? - What can policy makers do to prevent food emergencies and crises? - Why do we need a new general food law in Europe? - What are the guiding principles? - Will this law ensure that food is safe and If so how? - What about traceability along the food chain, application of the precautionary principle and food trade with third countries?