Background

“Biosafety within a biosecurity framework” generally refers to the safe use of new biotechnologies within the framework of managing biological risks associated with food and agriculture. FAO’s mandate requires it to address the safe use of such new technologies, in order to contribute to sustainable agriculture and food production.

“Biosafety” is a term generally used to describe frameworks encompassing the policy, regulation, and management to control potential risks associated with the use of modern biotechnologies. Such “biosafety” frameworks may occur at the international, regional or national levels.

FAO defines “biosecurity” as a strategic and integrated approach that encompasses the policies and regulatory frameworks that analyze and manage risks in the sectors of food safety, animal life and health, and plant life and health, including associated environmental risk. It is a holistic concept of direct relevance to the sustainability of agriculture and food production, food safety and the protection of the environment, including biodiversity and covers the introduction of plant pests, animal pests and diseases, and zoonoses, the introduction and release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their products, and the introduction and management of invasive alien species and genotypes.

In order for FAO to more effectively contribute to the ongoing efforts to assist its member countries in relation to biosafety, it has become evident that FAO must better understand the issues involved, as well as the function of the other partners in this field, in order to better identify and carry out its role in biosafety.

Objectives

The objectives of this expert consultation were to:

• identify and analyse potential safety issues associated with current and future applications of new biotechnologies, in various sectors relevant for sustainable agriculture and food production; and
• develop recommendations for FAO to appropriately address these, in particular regarding optimal risk analysis approaches.

FAO expert consultation on biosafety within a biosecurity framework: Contributing to sustainable agriculture and food production - Final report (2006)
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