A Co-operation Agreement signed in Brussels will advance scientific co-operation and the development of international standards in the fields of food and feed safety.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, November 19, EFSA's Executive-Director Catherine Geslain-Lanéelle said: "EFSA is delighted to strengthen its co-operation with the JRC in areas such as GMOs, BSE, the effects of climate change on food safety and feed additives.

The scientific research and related technological expertise of the JRC and its institutes play an important role in the European food safety system. Our increased co-operation will help keep EFSA’s work at the forefront of scientific knowledge and expertise".

The Joint Research Centre's Director-General Roland Schenkel added: "In a short period of time, EFSA and its partners have put in place a comprehensive program to improve EU food safety and ensure a high level of consumer protection.

This is essential to maintain confidence in the EU food supply. The JRC is committed to working with EFSA to provide essential scientific data to contribute to informed and responsible policy decisions in industry as well as in government".