Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition

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Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) is a regulatory agency in Spain responsible for ensuring the safety and nutritional quality of food throughout the country. It operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Health, with a mandate to protect public health by monitoring food hazards, promoting healthy eating habits, and coordinating with regional governments and international organizations on matters related to food safety and nutrition.

History

The agency was established to consolidate various food safety functions that were previously scattered among different government bodies. Its creation was part of a broader effort to enhance food safety standards in Spain, in response to global concerns over food-borne illnesses and the need for systematic food safety management.

Functions

AESAN's primary functions include:

• Risk Assessment: Evaluating the safety of food and feed, including the identification and assessment of potential hazards.
• Risk Management: Implementing measures to manage and mitigate identified risks associated with food and feed.
• Risk Communication: Informing the public and stakeholders about food safety issues, risks, and protective measures.
• Nutritional Policy Development: Promoting healthy eating habits and developing nutritional guidelines to improve public health.
• Coordination and Cooperation: Working with regional health authorities, other national bodies, and international organizations to ensure a coherent and effective approach to food safety and nutrition.

Regulatory Framework

The agency operates within a comprehensive regulatory framework that includes both national and European Union (EU) legislation. This framework is designed to ensure that food products are safe for consumption and that consumers are well-informed about the food they eat.

Challenges and Future Directions

AESAN faces ongoing challenges, including adapting to new food technologies, addressing the global nature of the food supply chain, and managing the risks associated with climate change and emerging pathogens. The agency is also focused on addressing nutritional challenges, such as obesity and malnutrition, through public education and policy development.

See Also

• Food safety
• Nutrition
• Ministry of Health
• European Food Safety Authority

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