Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM)

The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM) carries out independent scientific risk assessments for the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) across the Authority’s field of responsibility as well as environmental risk assessments of genetically modified organisms, microbiological products, alien organisms and trade in endangered species (CITES) for the Norwegian Environment Agency. The risk assessments are used when giving advice to the relevant ministries, when choosing measures to take and as a part of the background for developing new laws and regulations. By carrying out independent risk assessments of all issues related to food safety, VKM is an important contributor in the work of ensuring that Norwegian consumers have safe food. The committee is composed of about 120 independent scientific experts from universities and research institutions. The committe is appointed by the Ministry of Health and Care Services every four years. VKM is the official Norwegian Focal Point for the European Food Safety Authoriey (EFSA).