EU Food Safety and Animal Health

The EU is currently navigating a complex landscape in food safety and animal health. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) continues its vital role in monitoring and providing scientific advice on animal diseases. While avian flu detections saw a significant decline across the EU this spring, offering positive news for the poultry sector and potentially stabilizing egg and poultry prices, African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreaks rose sharply in 2025. This 76% increase in domestic pig outbreaks and 44% in wild boar compared to 2024 poses ongoing challenges for agriculture and risks impacting food production and consumer prices.

These developments underscore the constant need for robust EU-level oversight. The recent renewal of EFSA's Management Board on July 1, 2026, comprising representatives from Member States, the European Commission, and the European Parliament, is crucial. This board will shape future food safety standards, directly influencing the protection of European consumers from farm to fork and supporting businesses in navigating animal health challenges. The emphasis remains on continued vigilance and biosecurity measures from farmers to mitigate disease spread.

Looking ahead, the EU is committed to strengthening its scientific guidance and coordination to manage animal health threats effectively. The new EFSA Management Board will be instrumental in guiding the agency's response to emerging and persistent threats like ASF, while building on successes in areas like avian flu management. This sustained focus on scientific advice and coordinated action aims to safeguard public health, ensure food security, and protect the economic viability of the agricultural sector across the Union.