Germany:Germany/1/en

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.

The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture

Template:Institution The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) is responsible for agricultural policy and food safety. In the field of food safety the BMEL prepares draft legislation and issues ordinances. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) is a specialist authority within the portfolio of the BMEL. It contributes to the enforcement of legislation by undertaking statutory risk assessments and advises political circles. On management issues, the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) undertakes preparatory work for the BMEL.The portfolio of the BMEL also encompasses other federal research institutions such as the Max Rubner-Institut (MRI) in the field of nutrition and food.