European Food Safety Outshines US Standards, EU Chief Asserts
Europe’s food safety standards surpass US practices, says EU’s top official, pushing back against Trump’s claims amid trade tensions.
European Food Safety Outshines US Standards, EU Chief Asserts
As global trade debates continue to stir controversy, the European Union’s top food safety official is making it clear: when it comes to food safety, Europe is setting the gold standard. His pointed rebuttal comes after former President Donald Trump claimed that American food is “safer” than European imports—an assertion experts on the other side of the Atlantic are flatly rejecting.
In recent remarks aimed at defending tariffs on agricultural imports, Trump argued that foods coming from Europe fail to meet US safety requirements. Yet, according to Bernhard Url, Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), this narrative not only misrepresents reality but also endangers the spirit of fair trade negotiations.
“The EU’s food safety standards are non-negotiable,” Url emphasized. “They’re not bargaining chips for trade deals. They exist to protect consumers based on solid science and rigorous oversight.”
Trade Talks Tense as Food Safety Becomes a Battleground
The European Commission now faces a challenging new chapter in its already strained relationship with Washington. Negotiators are working to prevent a full-blown trade war, while some US policymakers are pushing Europe to loosen its agricultural import restrictions.
While discussions are ongoing, European officials stand firm. Rather than succumbing to economic pressure, they are highlighting Europe’s proven track record in managing food safety crises, often faster and more effectively than their American counterparts.
Url pointed to Europe’s quick containment of a 2025 resurgence of foot-and-mouth disease as a prime example. The outbreak, initially detected in Germany, was rapidly managed through coordinated veterinary efforts across Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria, demonstrating a proactive and efficient public health response.
“We begin from a more challenging position than the US when it comes to certain diseases like avian flu,” Url explained, “yet we consistently bring them under control without compromising our safety standards.”
Behind Europe’s Safety Net: Science, Action, and Transparency
In the EU, food safety is a collaborative mission. EFSA provides the scientific backbone, issuing recommendations based on cutting-edge research, while national governments execute protective measures on the ground. From establishing culling zones to enforcing surveillance perimeters, member states move swiftly when threats arise.
This multi-layered system, according to Url, is precisely what keeps European consumers safe. “It’s not just about writing regulations. It’s about fast, coordinated action when it matters most,” he said.
Combating Food Misinformation in the Digital Age
Beyond government oversight, another growing battle looms: the fight against food-related misinformation, particularly in an era dominated by social media.
Url noted that EFSA often finds itself on the defensive against viral myths, especially regarding novel foods like edible insects or lab-grown meat. Some media outlets have fueled misconceptions that Europeans are being forced to adopt these new foods—a claim Url firmly dismissed.
“No one is being coerced into eating anything,” he clarified. “Our role is to ensure that if a product is authorized for the market, it has undergone a thorough safety assessment.them.” Consumers are always in charge of what they choose to eat, with clear labeling to guide
Nonetheless, countering misinformation demands significant resources. EFSA collaborates closely with national governments and the European Commission to deliver evidence-based information to the public.
“In today’s information landscape, facts often compete with fiction,” Url admitted. “But by working together and sticking to the evidence, we can help people make informed decisions about their food.”
A Bigger Picture: Trust in Food Systems Matters More Than Ever
The food safety debate between the US and Europe isn’t just a political spat—it’s a window into how differently the two regions view public health protections. In Europe, the precautionary principle reigns supreme: if scientific doubt exists, regulators act swiftly to minimize risks. Meanwhile, the US approach often demands definitive proof of harm before interventions occur.
Recent studies highlight that European consumers generally express higher levels of trust in their food safety authorities compared to their American counterparts. A 2024 Eurobarometer survey found that 70% of Europeans trust their food regulatory bodies, whereas similar polls in the US show trust levels hovering below 50%.
As negotiations unfold, Url and his colleagues hope to keep food safety anchored firmly in science, not politics. “Food isn’t just a commodity,” Url said. “It’s about health, security, and trust—and those values are worth defending.”
Conclusion: Safety First, Always
In a world of growing uncertainties—from climate change to pandemics—protecting food systems with integrity and transparency has never been more critical. As Europe defends its food safety record against political rhetoric, it reminds us that consumer protection should never be sacrificed at the altar of trade deals. At the end of the day, facts, not fear, must shape the future of our food.
Disclaimer:
This article is a reimagined and professionally adapted version of existing news for educational and informational purposes. All opinions attributed to individuals are sourced from public records and statements. Readers are encouraged to verify facts independently and consult official resources for the latest updates.
source : Euronews (English)