The structure of a new European food and public health authority may disappoint consumer and industry bodies that expected it to have significant regulatory powers. European consumer protection commissioner, Mr David Byrne recently said the independent authority would only have an advisory role centred on scientific risk assessment. The former Irish Attorney General believes the management of risk and lawmaking must be undertaken by those who are accountable to the people. It seems regulatory decisions relating to food safety will remain in the hands of politicians.

The comments also suggests the new body will not have the far-reaching authority granted to the US Food and Drug Administration. Mr Byrne is expected to publish a white paper on food safety in mid January outlining his positions.