Written statement on Reclassification of the Food Standard Agency’s independent Scientific Advisory Committees - Jan 14

Minister for Public Health (Ashley Dalton): The Food Standard Agency's (FSA) independent Scientific Advisory Committees (SACs) ensure the agency's decisions and advice are grounded in the best scientific evidence. The SACs are essential for protecting public health, maintaining food safety standards, and ensuring consumer confidence by embedding science into every aspect of FSA decision-making.

Earlier this year, the Cabinet Office undertook a review of Arm's Length Bodies in line with the aims of the Government Plan for Change. As part of the recommendations of this review, four of the FSA's SACs previously classified as Advisory Non-Departmental Public Bodies will be reclassified as Departmental Expert Committees.

• The Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment advises the FSA, the Department of Health and Social Care, and other Government Departments and Agencies on matters concerning the toxicity of chemicals.
• The Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food advises Government on questions relating to microbiological issues and food.
• The Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes advises the FSA on matters pertaining to novel foods, traditional novel foods, genetically modified foods and feed and novel food processes including food irradiation.
• The Advisory Committee on Animal Feeding stuffs advises on the safety and use of animal feeds and feeding practices, with particular emphasis on protecting human health, and with reference to new technical developments.

All four committees will continue to maintain their current remit, secretariat and membership to allow the continuity of their work and secure their critical functions, with no disruption to their operations or expert advice.