The European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) said its recently attained status as a registered stakeholder in the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) will better position it to have an impact on EU legislation affecting hemp foods.
“This is indeed a big step for the European hemp food industry to be accepted by EFSA as a dialog partner and recognized knowledge center,” said newly elected EIHA President Daniel Kruse.
Scientific advisers
EFSA, a European Union agency, provides independent scientific advice and analyzes existing and emerging risks associated with the food chain across the EU. Most of EFSA’s work involves studies for the European Commission, and EU Member States. The agency’s voice is critical to the acceptance of foods and the responsible guidance of food regulations in Europe.
EFSA maintains channels for stakeholder engagement, allowing them to give input into such things as scientific assessment and communications, while preserving the independence and transparency of those processes.
The new status will enhance EIHA efforts to set reasonable guidelines for hemp extracts, particularly CBD, by giving the Association a strong voice at the highest level of the EU.
‘Key position’
“Being recognized as registered stakeholder gives us the opportunity to provide strategic input to EFSA’s work plans and future priorities,” said EIHA Managing Director Lorenza Romanese. “This recognition will bring EIHA to an undeniable key position in the forthcoming years.” EIHA’s specialized Advisory Committees will provide EFSA high quality scientific advice, Romanese said.
EFSA’s stakeholders are representative organisations that have an interest in the Authority’s work or in the wider food and feed sector. EFSA divides stakeholders into seven major groups: Consumer organizations, NGOs and advocacy groups, farmers, food industry representatives, HORECA, associations, practitioners, and academia.
