Malta gets new food safety agency

Malta has officially launched a new food agency bringing food safety functions together under one structure.

Prime Minister Robert Abela said the Food Safety and Security Authority will enhance governance and the protection of food security.

Established through the Food Safety and Security Authority Act 2025, the agency aims to ensure that all food produced, processed, or imported into Malta is safe, of high quality, and traceable throughout the supply chain, from farmers and fishermen to manufacturers, restaurants and consumers.

The authority will oversee compliance with European and international laws and standards. It will regulate and coordinate controls throughout the food chain, issuing licenses, permits, and certificates to food operators, and maintaining official registers covering things such as approved establishments. Protection of public health will be achieved through risk assessments, inspections, testing, and monitoring.

An important milestone
Abela highlighted the government’s investment in strengthening public infrastructure related to food, through initiatives such as the modernization of the public abattoir and the introduction of farm to table traceability systems for fruits and vegetables sold through the Pitkalija, a local produce market.

Anton Refalo, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, said the move was an important milestone for the country, marking the first time that all food safety functions are being brought together under one national structure.

“This authority is the result of a clear vision and collective effort to deliver a more coordinated, transparent, and scientifically informed food system. With this step, we are placing the consumer at the center of the system while strengthening trust between farmers, herdsmen, fishermen, entrepreneurs, and Maltese and Gozitan families,” said Refalo.

Refalo said establishment of the authority reaffirms the government’s commitment to safe and high-quality food, while preparing the country to meet challenges such as climate change and food supply crises.

European support
Dr. Nikolaus Kriz, executive director of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), congratulated the government and the Maltese people on creation of the authority.

“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,” he said.

On a visit to Malta, Christophe Hansen, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, said: “Across the EU, I have listened to farmers’ concerns and hopes, and Malta is no exception. Despite our differences across Europe, the priorities for agriculture here are just as big, from ensuring food security to offering real prospects for young farmers.” 

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