The EU has adopted a new regulation requiring Member States to conduct whole genome sequencing (WGS) on the isolates of five important pathogens during the investigations of foodborne illness outbreaks, and sets data-sharing parameters.
EU agencies are recommending actions the agriculture sector should take toward the more responsible use of azole-based fungicides, due to the risk of Aspergillus becoming azole-resistant, making treatment for human infections less effective.
Regulation (EU) 2025/40, also known as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, limits per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food packaging, bans single-use plastics for most produce, sets requirements for single-use containers in foodservice, and makes other changes to EU plastic food packaging rules.
On December 19, the European Commission officially adopted a sweeping ban on the use of Bisphenol A (BPA), as well as some other bisphenols considered harmful, in all food contact materials. Industry will be allowed an 18-month transition period.
The European Commission has updated its list of food imports from certain countries that are subjected to temporarily increased official controls due to contamination risk.
The EU has implemented a new regulation that requires U.S. importers of apiculture products like honey to register with the EU’s Trade Control and Expert System (TRACES). Prior to TRACES registration, businesses must complete an assessment with USDA and an application with FDA.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has opened a public consultation on a draft scientific opinion about the public health risks associated with perchlorate in food. EFSA increased the tolerable daily intake for the chemical and concluded no health risk to the general population at current exposure levels.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has opened a public consultation on a draft assessment of the health risks associated with fluoride exposure from drinking water, diet, and other sources.
The EU One Health Zoonoses Report for 2023 shows that foodborne illnesses are rising in the EU, with listeriosis cases reaching their highest levels since 2007. Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) caused the greatest number of illnesses in 2023.
A report by the European Court of Auditors has identified “notable gaps” in the EU legal framework around food labeling and enforcement of regulations, and offered recommendations for improvement.
