New appointments to the Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes

The FSA has appointed Dr Camilla Pease as an expert member in toxicology and Ms Claire Nicholson as a consumer affairs representative. Both appointments are for a three-year term of membership from February 2013. The ACNFP is a non-statutory, independent body of scientific experts that advises the FSA on any matters relating to novel foods (including genetically modified foods) and novel processes (including food irradiation).

There are 16 committee members in total. Members are appointed to ensure that a broad spectrum of relevant eminent scientific expertise and knowledge is represented on the committee, so that issues can be examined thoroughly and individual applications can be considered on their merits.

Members have expertise in a wide range of disciplines including genetic modification, nutrition, microbiology, food technology, toxicology and allergenicity. There are also three lay members: two consumer representatives, who provide a valuable insight into consumer concerns; and an ethicist, who advises on ethical issues relating to new foods and processes, including genetically modified foods.

The term of office for the two new members ends on 31 January 2016