Food Safety Guardians: 100 Years of Expertise

A significant milestone is approaching in the world of food safety. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, or JECFA, is set to hold its 100th meeting in 2025. This committee plays a crucial role in ensuring that the food we eat is safe. It does this by evaluating various substances that might end up in our food, whether intentionally added or not. These substances include food additives, enzymes, flavorings, natural toxins, metals, chemical contaminants, and even residues from veterinary drugs. Since its start in 1956, JECFA has been busy. It has looked at over 660 food additives, 105 enzymes, 2500 flavorings, 11 groups of natural toxins, 12 metals, 25 groups of synthetic chemical contaminants, and residues of 115 veterinary drugs. This is a lot of work, but it's all in the name of keeping our food safe. JECFA's evaluations are not just about counting these substances. They also involve complex risk assessments. These assessments help set health-based guidance values for chemicals in food. They also evaluate genotoxic and carcinogenic contaminants. This means they look at substances that can cause cancer or damage our genes. JECFA's work doesn't stop at evaluations. It also contributes to the development of risk assessment methodologies. These methodologies are used globally to ensure food safety. JECFA's advice is independent and based on the latest scientific evidence. This makes it a reliable resource for the Codex Alimentarius Commission and the member countries of the Food and Agricultural Organization and the World Health Organization. The committee's evaluations and advice are freely available online. This accessibility is vital for protecting consumer health and facilitating the international trade of safe food. The committee's work is not just about numbers and evaluations. It's about ensuring that the food on our plates is safe to eat. It's about protecting our health and the health of people around the world. As JECFA approaches its 100th meeting, it's a good time to appreciate the work they do. Their efforts help ensure that we can enjoy our meals without worrying about hidden dangers. This is a critical role in our global food system.