On 6 June 2026, EU Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Olivér Várhelyi issued a statement ahead of World Food Safety Day, highlighting the EU's robust food safety system and announcing continued efforts to strengthen import controls. Várhelyi emphasised that the EU's high standards apply to all products on the market, whether produced in Europe or imported, and that non-compliant goods are rejected at the border.
Várhelyi noted that since the start of his mandate, he has worked to reinforce every link in the food chain, increasing controls on imports and taking firm action to prevent unsafe goods from entering the market. He stressed that any product sold in the EU must meet European standards, a measure that protects consumers, ensures fairness for farmers and food businesses, and strengthens trust in the food supply.
The statement did not introduce new legislative proposals or numerical targets, but reaffirmed existing commitments to science-based rules, rigorous controls, and cooperation between operators and authorities. Várhelyi underlined that upholding food safety is integral to food security and that the EU will continue coordinating with member states and partners to maintain its world-class system.
No prior coverage of this specific statement exists in recent records. The announcement comes as the EU prepares to mark World Food Safety Day, an annual event that raises awareness about food safety risks and the importance of regulatory frameworks.
The statement carries implications for several stakeholders. EU consumers benefit from continued assurance of high safety standards, but may face limited choice if non-compliant imports are rejected. EU farmers and food producers gain a level playing field, as imported goods must meet the same rules, reducing competitive disadvantage. Importers and third-country suppliers face stricter controls and potential rejection of goods, increasing compliance costs and trade barriers. EU regulatory bodies and national authorities must maintain and enforce the control systems, requiring ongoing resources and coordination.
Overall, the statement reinforces the status quo of a stringent EU food safety regime, with no immediate regulatory changes but a clear signal of continued vigilance on import compliance.