Six new European scientific projects on risks associated with food
Since late 2024, ANSES has been taking part in six new European projects, two of which it is coordinating. These projects, funded by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) as part of its "tailor-made" activities, are seeking to improve knowledge and the use of data on risks associated mainly with food. They will explore issues such as the risks associated with botulism, according to a One Health approach, and the use of artificial intelligence to analyse data in the field of food safety.
Agricultural biodiversity and climate change: vegetation in the margins of fields has changed in just 10 years
Scientists from INRAE and ANSES have been studying changes in field margin vegetation on 500 agricultural plots in mainland France, to understand how climate change and farming practices are affecting these plants. Their results, published in Ecology Letters, show that in 10 years the average temperature in these plots has risen by 1.2°C and soil moisture has fallen by 14%. The work shows that the plant communities in field margins have changed as a result, with more species tolerant to heat and aridity to the detriment of ruderal species (i.e. those able to withstand the disruption associated with farming practices). Climate change mitigation practices, such as plant cover and agroforestry, or reducing the use of agricultural inputs, would help preserve the ability of this biodiversity to adapt.
ANSES proposes classifying galaxolide as toxic for reproduction in the European CLP Regulation
ANSES is proposing a harmonised classification for galaxolide, sometimes referred to as HHCB, as a Category 1B reproductive toxicant under the CLP Regulation (for Classification, Labelling and Packaging of products). This substance, which is widely used in everyday products such as perfumes, cosmetics and air fresheners, can cause damage to human fertility and development, according to the conclusions of ANSES’s expert appraisal work. Since 27 January 2025, the scientific dossier has been available for public consultation on the website of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), for comments or provision of additional information on this substance.
Do not consume food supplements containing Garcinia cambogia
Although it is banned in medicines, the Garcinia cambogia Desr. plant continues to be offered in food supplements. Consuming them can have severe adverse effects, in particular acute hepatitis, including in people with no previous history of medical problems. An overall analysis of these signals has led ANSES to issue an alert strongly advising against the consumption of food supplements containing this plant.
Partnership between ANSES and CIRAD: a stronger commitment to safeguarding every type of health
The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES) and the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD) have renewed their partnership for a five-year period. The aim is to strengthen their scientific collaboration on animal, plant and human health, including through food safety. The partnership agreement was signed on 28 February by Élisabeth Claverie de Saint Martin, CEO of CIRAD, and Benoit Vallet, Director General of ANSES.
ANSES and FREDON France renew and expand their partnership
ANSES and the FREDON France network have signed a new cooperation agreement to expand their partnership, which began in 2015. By combining their expertise, the two organisations are working together to better protect the health of plants and ecosystems and, through them, human health.
ANSES and GDS France strengthen their partnership to support livestock farmers and veterinary public health
On Thursday 27 February 2025, Benoit Vallet, Director General of ANSES, and Christophe Moulin, President of the French Federation of Health Protection Groups (GDS France), signed a framework partnership agreement designed to renew and reaffirm their commitment to farm health, for the benefit of French livestock farmers and veterinary public health.
ANSES at the Paris International Agricultural Show: providing a better understanding of the health challenges related to water
As is the case every year, ANSES will be at the Paris International Agricultural Show, from 22 February to 2 March, to discuss health issues associated with agriculture and food. This year, the Agency has decided to showcase its research and expert appraisal work on the topic of water, given that pollution and climate change are putting water resources and aquatic environments under severe strain. A variety of scientific activities and conferences will give visitors a better understanding of these challenges and how the Agency is addressing them. Visitors will also be able to find out about all the professions contributing to ANSES's efforts to safeguard every type of health.
Household product hazards: improving consumer information
In order to better inform consumers about the health and environmental hazards of household products, ANSES is proposing to categorise these products in order to establish a labelling standard for them. This work is also aimed at encouraging manufacturers to improve the composition of their products.