Food safety and information rules in the regulation of allergens, GMO and engineered nanomaterials

Francesco Rende / Roberto Saija

Keywords

Food Safety; Information; Consumer; Allergens; Engineered Nanomaterials; GMO

Abstract

This essay examines the European legislation on food safety with specific regard to pontentially dangerous products for human health. Special attention is paid to the Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law, establishing the European Food Safety Authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety (Food Safety Regulation), to the Regulation (Eu) No 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers (Food Information Regulation) and to REGULATION (EU) No 2015/2283 on novel foods.

Our research focuses on the regulation of allergens, engineered nanomaterials and GMO (genetically modified organism), and highilights how, by now, the information paradigm is the main risk management tool according to the principle of "permit but inform"; conversely, the actions to exclude or limit the food freedom movement are becoming increasingly rare.