HAPIH is an independent public institution in the field of agriculture and food safety and works within the portfolio of the MP. HAPIH has a remit to implement risk assessments and risk communication relating to food and feed safety. HAPIH provides scientific and technical support based on risk assessments on all matters regarding food and feed safety, plant health, animal health and welfare. Further activities include research in the field of agronomy and related fields, plant protection, seed and seedling production, viticulture, winemaking, oil production, fruit growing, vegetable growing, agricultural land, cattle breeding, quality control of fresh raw milk, honey and feed.

HAPIH works in close cooperation and communication with a broad spectrum of national and international institutions. National independent scientific experts support the work of HAPIH through participation in the expert bodies. HAPIH is responsible for establishing and coordinating the national network of institutions in the area of food safety.