The remit of the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) encompasses scientifically based risk assessments as part of administrative procedures, for instance marketing authorisations for plant protection products, and policy advice. The BfR risk assessments are used by the BMEL, BMUB and regional/local public authorities as the basis for management measures. Without being influenced by scientific, political or social interests, the BfR has the task of assessing risks, identifying new health risks and drawing up risk minimisation recommendations. In this context, the BfR draws on the support of 15 independent expert committees with around 200 committee members overall. In its capacity as a scientific body, the BfR enjoys independence in respect of the results of its opinions, and prepares expert reports on risk assessment.
The BfR's remit includes novel foods and food ingredients, feed, residues of plant protection products and veterinary medicinal products, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), food supplements, zoonoses, food contact materials and mineral waters. Other main areas of its work are research and transparent communication with the public at large, scientific circles and other stakeholders.
