What is risk assessment?

Risk assessment is one part of the general risk analysis process, which also involves risk management and risk communication.

Risk assessments are drawn up on the basis of science-based information, with the principles of independence, impartiality, and transparency observed. Risk managers use those assessments to make the management decisions required to ensure the good health of the population and animals as well as in policy formation.

In the European Union, risk assessment is carried out by EFSA, the European Food Safety Authority. The European Commission is the risk manager.

The main duties of the risk assessment department established under LABRIS include the following:

• drawing up science-based opinions, risk assessments, and reviews commissioned by the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture (REM) and the Agriculture and Food Board (AFB) in the following fields:
  • food chemical safety, including additives, contaminants, and pesticide residues;
  • food biological safety, including microbiology, parasitology, and foodborne pathogens;
  • novel food, genetically modified food;
  • food contact materials and articles;
  • nutrition and health claims;
  • animal health, including risk profiles of animal diseases;
  • feed safety;
• advising REM and AFB in drawing conclusions based on the results of risk assessments, participating in risk communication, and suggesting risk mitigation measures;
• cooperation with research and development institutions, participating in the work of international risk assessment networks.

Food safety and animal health risk analysis scheme in Estonia: