The European Food and Safety Authority (EFSA) has published an update of how it evaluates the potential genotoxicity of substances in food and feed assessments. This scientific opinion provides recommendations on the adequacy of specific tests to establish the genotoxic potential of substances. It also advises on how to use data in a weight-of-evidence approach to conclude on genotoxicity and whether or not it is possible to set safe levels for substances. This opinion can be used by applicants when preparing their dossiers for evaluation and will also support the work of risk assessors and risk managers. Three key issues addressed by the opinion are: 1) the use of the “unscheduled DNA synthesis” test in relation to future assessments and re-assessments; 2) assessing bone marrow exposure in in vivo genotoxicity testing; and 3) whether or not data allow setting of safe levels.
Source: http://www.efsa.europa.eu/