Risk Assessment

Risk assessment includes in particular the identification and characterization of hazards, followed by an exposure assessment and culminating in a risk characterisation. 

In the food sector a risk assessment is often indispensable when pesticide residues, contaminants (e.g. heavy metals, mycotoxins and plant toxins), allergens or microbiological contaminants are detected. 

But also naturally occurring food ingredients must be considered with regard to possible health risks by means of a risk assessment to ensure marketability of the food products (e.g. morphine in poppy seeds, hydrocyanic acid in almonds).

In the field of food contact materials, risk assessment is often necessary to assess consumer health risks from substances that migrate into food (e.g. migration of melamine & formaldehyde from bamboo tableware).

In cosmetics contact allergens and fragrances are often focused in a risk assessment.

A risk assessment can also be triggered by the overstepping of internal company thresholds or boundaries, or through complaints raised by the authorities. A rapid reaction is essential in such cases in order to limit the damage. However, exceeding legally defined limit values does not necessarily lead to an unsafe product.

In cooperation with the law firm meyer.rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH, we clarify on your behalf whether withdrawals or recalls of products are necessary based on the facts ascertained.

We also conduct a critical review of expert opinions issued by the authorities and, in cooperation with the law firm meyer.rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH, draw up statements with scientific expertise and legal know-how to avert possible complaints.

Please do not hesitate to contact us in the above-mentioned cases and let us support you in your risk assessment based on scientific expertise combined with legal knowledge.