Food safety : main normative documents

Since the early 2000s, changes in international trade rules and growing consumer demands have made food safety a major concern for stakeholders in the food industry. The several food crises that have affected the agri-food sector in recent years have inevitably contributed to stricter requirements for transparency and consumer confidence.

All operators in the food chain must meet regulatory obligations regarding the compliance of the food products they place on the market.

The food safety regulations applicable to organizations are extensive and far-reaching. The foundational texts in this area are the European regulations comprising the “Hygiene Package.” They apply to all professionals in the food chain, from primary production to the consumer.

Hygiene control plans and self-monitoring systems implemented by industry professionals have, over the years, enhanced the safety and hygiene quality of products.

For any organization operating in the agricultural and agri-food sector, these basic regulatory texts may be supplemented by voluntary standards.

A list of abbreviations used is provided at the end of the article.