Background

What is the JECFA Toolbox for Veterinary Drug Residues Risk Assessment?

This toolbox describes the process used by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) when assessing the risks of veterinary drug residues in animal-derived food products consumed by humans. The fundamental purpose of the JECFA risk assessment process is to critically evaluate the hazard and exposure potential of such residues via robust analyses of all relevant scientific data.

The key output of the JECFA risk assessment process is the derivation of maximum residue limits (MRLs), which serve two primary functions:

• To protect human health from acute or chronic risks of drug residues present in animal-derived food products;
• To facilitate the trade of animal-derived food products through the establishment of internationally recognized limits for residues of veterinary drugs.

The derived MRLs are then recommended to the Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Food (CCRDVF), which develops appropriate risk management measures. 

Who is the JECFA Toolbox for Veterinary Drug Residues Risk Assessment for?

This toolbox is designed for all stakeholders interested in the risks associated with veterinary drug residues in food. This may include local or national regulatory agencies responsible for veterinary drug approval or food quality standards, the pharmaceutical industry, producers in animal agriculture or veterinary associations.

While we invite everyone to explore the toolbox, some sections may be more relevant to particular stakeholders than others. The general sections may appeal to those more interested in the broader risk analysis of veterinary drug residues. Other sections are highly technical and will be more relevant to those with an extensive background in toxicology, microbiology, pharmacokinetics, drug metabolism, residue chemistry, or exposure assessment.