By: KTBA Kenniscentrum
The above is apparent from both the long-term planning of the NVWA (https://www.nvwa.nl/over-de-nvwa/organisation/meerjaaragenda#nvwmrjrngndStart) and from the recently published risk letter from BuRO ( https://www.nvwa.nl /documents/nvwa/organization/how-the-nvwa-works/publications/risk-brief-buro-2021).
Public interests
The BuRO recommends focusing on both (un)controlled risks and risks not yet accessed. The focus is mainly on threats to public interests, of which food safety and consumer confidence are, of course, a few examples. There is also talk of intensifying the focus on data and information management.
Shift
In the future, we will see a shift from enforcement to risk communication for low-impact hazards. However, enforcement will remain necessary for those hazards with a high impact. In addition, the NVWA will in future make even more use of third parties for regular enforcement. This is currently already the case with the COKZ and SKAL.
Chemical hazards
The appendices of the risk letter mainly discuss microbial and chemical hazards. It is good to hear that, for example, regarding chemical hazards, there are plans to focus more on animal feeders, so that investigations and enforcement can take place earlier in the chain.
Enthusiastic
All in all, there are big plans within the NVWA. Naturally, we are enthusiastic about this. We are always open to new developments within legislation and regulations in the interest of food safety, the heart of our profession. We are, therefore, curious to see the coming changes.