EFSA to Issue Scientific Advice on Possible Food Safety Risks in Volcano Ashfall Aftermath

EFSA’s initial advice will focus on short -term risks from direct exposure of animals and plants to ash in the EU. EFSA will deliver this assistance by April 23 at the latest.

22 Apr 2010 --- Following the eruption of the Eyjafjallajoekull volcano in Iceland, the European Commission has asked the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to provide urgent scientific advice on the possible risks for public and animal health through food, including drinking water and feed, in the event of a significant fall of ash.

EFSA’s initial advice will focus on short -term risks from direct exposure of animals and plants to ash in the EU. EFSA will deliver this assistance by April 23 at the latest.

EFSA is liaising closely on this issue with national food safety authorities in the European Union and beyond.