The Bulgarian Cabinet has approved the establishment of a control body to co-ordinate food quality at all levels, modelled on the European Food Safety Authority, the Government said on June 9 2010.

The envisaged Food Safety Agency, as well as accompanying Risk Assessment Centre, was announced by Agriculture Minister Miroslav Naidenov after the Cabinet’s regular meeting. Control will be exercised at all levels of the food chain, according to the report – ranging from the animals themselves, animal health care, the condition of farms and stables, food processing and manufacturing, agricultural control, plant, vegetable and fruit control, and others.

The aim is to improve food quality in Bulgaria and "to increase consumers' trust", the statement said.

The Agency will have controlling functions, with its management appointed by the prime minister. Subsequently, its structure will be subordinated to the Agriculture Ministry. Meanwhile the Risk Assessment Centre will be established within the Agency itself, with its head also appointed by the prime minister.

Once operational, the Food Safety Agency will act as a tangible point between food producers and consumers in Bulgaria and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

As an agency of the European Union, EFSA provides independent scientific advice and information on existing and emerging risks involving the food chain. Its work covers all matters with a direct or indirect impact on food safety, including animal health and welfare, plant protection and plant health and nutrition, a model to which its Bulgarian counterpart will adhere.

EFSA supports EU member states in taking effective and timely risk management decisions that ensure the protection of European consumers' health.