THE ROLE OF SCIENCE IN EU REGULATORY POLICIES

paper discusses the role of science in policy making in the European Union (EU). Lessons from past experiences are used to provide an outlook for the future. Key words: food safety; risk assessment; European Union (EU). Food crises have had a major impact on agriculture in the European Union. The establishment of a European food policy that gives priority to consumer protection and consumer health is at the forefront of the role of science in policy making within Europe. Evolution Of European Food Policy In 1997, the European Union adopted a new food policy which was based on the premise that complete scientific evidence should be taken into account when deciding legislativ or other food safety measures. If scientific evidence was incomplete or unconvincing, full reassessment would be necessary. In addition, at all stages of the food chain there was to be clear responsibility for the safety and wholesomeness of food. Counter-measures would be taken at all critical points throughout the food chain. At that time, the Commission informed all interested parties how it would obtain and use scientific advice, and how its food policy would be implemented through ordinary and sanitary controls an