Food Authority to be weaker - Dutch Food Authority - Brief Article

Eurofood, August 2, 2001

The Dutch Food Authority will be less powerful than originally intended. That is the feeling from the Dutch Cabinet, although no decisions have been made on the precise aims and functions of this body. Discussions will start again on the proposal if possible, the Cabinet says.

The Ministers for Agriculture and for Public Health disagree about the remit. The initial plan was that the Authority would be responsible for scientific research, enforcement and communication.

According to the present legislative proposal the Dutch Food Authority will be set up in 2002 with the following two tasks: to give scientific advice and to continue the setting up of the Authority. The Authority will be the responsibility of both the Ministries for Agriculture and for Public Health. It will not be the independent, powerful body called for by the food and drink industry.

The Food Inspectorate and the National Inspectorate for Livestock and Cattle will remain responsible for all food enforcement actions and will not fall under the Authority's remit.