In Germany the central legal foundation for food legislation is the Food and Feed Code (Lebensmittel- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch). Infringement of food regulations can lead to measures under criminal law and consumer damage claims under civil law, whereby the final decision rests with the courts. Government measures with regard to food safety are often based on scientific risk assessment. However, the final decision on the legality of governmental measures rests with the courts.
In Germany risk assessment and risk management are institutionally separated at federal level. At regional level, however, (i. e. in the 16 federal states) risk assessment and risk management are not institutionally separated. In Germany, food safety laws are enacted at federal level, however, implementation and control at the regional level is the responsibility of the 16 federal states.
Risk assessments are usually published on the Internet unless there are statutory provisions that prohibit this.
