The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was created on the strength of Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2002. EFSA is the keystone of European Union (EU) risk assessment regarding food and feed safety and is an independent European agency funded by the EU budget that operates separately from the European Commission, European Parliament and EU Member States. In close collaboration with national authorities and in open consultation with its stakeholders, EFSA provides independent scientific advice and clear communication on existing and emerging risks.

EFSA is connected with the national food safety authorities via the EFSA Advisory Forum (AF). Through it, EFSA and the Member States can join forces in addressing European risk assessment and risk communications issues. The Advisory Forum members represent each national body responsible for risk assessment in the EU.

EFSA has initiated Focal Points in the Member States to coordinate the national network of risk managers, food safety authorities, research institutes, consumers and other EFSA-related stakeholders. The Focal Points ensure exchange of information, and provide advice and support to the AF member.

In Poland the Focal Point is located in the Chief Sanitary Inspectorate.

More information about the role of Focal Points is available in EFSA's document Strategy for Cooperation and Networking between the EU Member States and EFSA.

The Focal Points meet regularly to exchange experiences and further develop their networks. Agendas and minutes from Focal Point meetings are available on the EFSA Focal points web area.