Chapter 2.12 of the dispatch (pp. 816-959) defines the new internal market agreement on food safety. At over 140 pages, it is the most extensive individual chapter of the dispatch, covering food law, veterinary affairs, plant health and GMO regulations.
The agreement creates a comprehensive framework for cooperation in food safety between Switzerland and the EU. It enables access to the European rapid alert systems (RASFF, TRACES, iRASFF) and participation in EFSA (European Food Safety Authority). At the same time, border controls are simplified and harmonisation of food law is advanced.
| System | Description | Benefit for Switzerland |
|---|---|---|
| RASFF | Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed | Immediate warnings in case of food risks |
| TRACES | Trade Control and Expert System | Digital traceability of foodstuffs |
| iRASFF | Interactive RASFF portal | Real-time exchange between authorities |
Access to these systems is central to consumer protection in Switzerland: in case of a food scandal in the EU, Switzerland is immediately informed and can take action before contaminated products reach the market.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is the EU's central scientific authority for risk assessments in the food sector. Swiss participation includes:
One of the most tangible results: simplified border controls for foodstuffs, animal products and plants:
Switzerland progressively adopts EU food law in the areas of:
The veterinary area covers:
GMO regulation remains a sensitive area:
Sanitary and phytosanitary measures (SPS) include:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Agreement type | Internal market agreement (new) |
| Dispatch volume | 143 pages (largest chapter) |
| Rapid alert systems | RASFF, TRACES, iRASFF |
| EFSA participation | Yes (panels, data, networks) |
| Border controls | Simplified for harmonised products |
| GMO moratorium | Maintained |
| Consumer protection | Strengthened through real-time alerts |