EFSA published on 15 May 2019 a technical report on Risk evaluation of chemical contaminants in food in the context of RASFF notifications.

An evaluation on the level of risk is necessary to decide if a RASFF notification should be issued. EFSA was requested to propose a risk evaluation methodology that would allow a rapid and consistent risk‐based classification of RASFF notifications.

The methodology aims to provide a transparent set of criteria that can support the decision whether to notify in RASFF and increase transparency and harmonization. The methodology was developed for evaluation of contaminants (arising from food contact materials, pharmacologically active substances and other food contaminants) in food.

The risk evaluation is based on the assessment of toxicological properties and dietary exposure. The result, expressed as the comparison of exposure to a relevant toxicological reference point, can be classified as no risk; low probability of adverse health effects or low concern for public health; potential risk; or risk.