Helpdesk bids to simplify and speed up EFSA applications

By Rory Harrington

- Last updated on GMT

Related tags European union Evaluation

Helpdesk bids to simplify and speed up EFSA applications
Packaging players seeking authorisation for novel food contact materials (FCMs) will be just one group set to benefit from the introduction of a new advice service, said the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

The food safety watchdog said it had launched its Applications Helpdesk Unit in a bid to boost understanding of how it carries out its risk assessment work across the board - to not only industry but also European Union member states and others.

The move is also part of a strategy towards increased transparency on how it reaches recommendations on whether to grant approval for new substances, products and health claims.

Helpdesk

The helpdesk will act as “front office and support desk providing information and support,”​ said Per Bergman, the agency’s acting director of scientific evaluation of regulated products directorate.

“Our first major initiative is the launch of a new service on EFSA’s website where users can access information about applications and submit specific questions related to the legal and technical requirements for evaluations,”​ he added.

The section for FCM applications contains a ‘frequently asked questions’ segment. This seeks to provide basic information on whether it is necessary to make an application for a substance, how to do this and how to check on the progress of an application once submitted.

It also gives a series of short cut links to – among others – the application procedure for FCMs, requirements for all dossiers and additional requirements for active and intelligent substances.

In the future, the Applications Helpdesk Unit will also be responsible within EFSA for centralising and processing the initial administrative steps of all applications.

Streamlining

The Parma-based body said it was looking to streamline its authorisation procedures so that it can cope with the soaring numbers of applications it is being asked to assess and help support the competitiveness of the annual €900bn European agrofood sector.

EFSA said that the number of application-related evaluations had “increased considerably”​ in the last eight years. These have doubled since 2008 and now for 40% of its resources.

It said that this trend towards both increased volume and complexity of applications was likely to continue in the light of recent legislative changes.

“The Applications Helpdesk Unit will enable EFSA to provide a streamlined service to applicants and other interested parties in this changing environment”,​ it said.

Click HERE ​to link to the Helpdesk information on FCM applications

http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/applicationshelpdesk/foodcontactmaterials.htm

Related topics Food Safety & Quality

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