An unusual public row over replacing outgoing European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) executive director Geoffrey Podger is embittering relations between Brussels bureaucrats ahead of Podger’s planned November departure to Britain’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The Commission wants a new EFSA executive director to be appointed after being assessed and nominated by its officials. This has angered EFSA’s top brass.


Writing to Commission secretary general David O’Sullivan, EFSA board chairman Dr Stuart Slorach said this would “in effect transfer to reappoint an executive director from the (EFSA) management board to the Commission”, compromising its authority and maybe “undermining confidence in EFSA as an independent body within the EU”.

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now