For the first time, FSSA brings together food safety functions across Malta and the island of Gozo under one national structure.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) commended the creation of FSSA, with Executive Director Nikolaus Kriz, D.V.M. remarking during the FSSA launch ceremony, “This is a milestone for Malta and great news for Europe’s entire food safety system. By joining forces, we strengthen our capacity to protect citizens, animals, and the environment.”

Before the launch of FSSA, Malta’s Prime Minister, Robert Abela, LL.D., held a meeting with European Commissioner Christophe Hansen, during which he highlighted the importance of ensuring that the EU Common Agricultural Policy considers the specific needs and unique characteristics of Malta’s agricultural sector.

Malta has made various other investments in the country’s food infrastructure in recent years. These investments include the modernization of the Public Abattoir, which is the only provider of services related to the slaughter for bovines, swine, equines, and small ruminants in Malta. The government also introduced farm-to-table traceability systems for fruit and vegetables sold through the Pitkalija, the marketing center for the collection and disposal of local agricultural produce in Malta; created a new agricultural market; and established a €20-million Food Innovation Hub.