Introduction and Background

This is a paper for discussion. This does not represent the views of the Committee and should not be cited.

Introduction

1.            EFSA discussed the possible update of the document ‘Guidance on the evaluation of the safety and efficacy of substances for the removal of microbial surface contamination of foods of animal origin intended for human consumption’ at the 39^th Plenary meeting of the EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes and Processing aids (CEP Panel). The purpose of the update was to provide   more/further detail  on the data and information that should be provided by an applicant to EFSA.

2.            During the public consultation process the COT has an opportunity to provide comment on the draft guidance. Particular attention is drawn to section 4 of the guidance document, which describes the requirements for toxicological testing (see paragraph 26 onwards of this document).

3.            Members are invited to comment on the guidance, and also to advise on whether they agree with EFSA’s approach for the requirements for the toxicological assessment. The deadline for comments is 5^th February 2025 so it will not be possible to take any additional comments following the meeting. Members are also invited to provide comments on the draft guidance document, to be submitted to EFSA.

4.            The consultation has been shared with FCM JEG Members who did not have any comments.

Background

5.            This document provides a summary of the EFSA guidance on submitting data to evaluate the safety and efficacy of substances used to remove microbial surface contamination from foods of animal origin intended for human consumption. This includes information on the technical aspects of the substance, consumer exposure assessment, toxicological and ecotoxicological impact, efficacy in removing microbial contamination, and the potential for acquired reduced susceptibility to biocides and/or resistance to therapeutic antimicrobials induced by the substance.  

6.            The guidance is applicable to chemical substances, biological agents, or a combination of both, used to decontaminate foods of animal origin, and applies to a wider range of foods such as beef carcasses, pork meat, and processed foods such as cheese. It details the data and information required for the evaluation of the safety and efficacy of these substances for consumers and the environment.