The Ministry of Health and Care Services (HOD) deals with health policy, including nutrition and food safety. It is responsible for legislation in the field of health protection, food safety and food, except for primary production. HOD's responsibilities include drinking water and cosmetics. HOD is responsible for the Norwegian Directorate of Health, which deals with public health, including nutrition, as well as for the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. HOD finances and appoints the otherwise independent Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM).