The Commission has published a report on potential fraud risks and control methods to detect fraudulent and deceptive practices in the food chain. The information will be used by member state authorities responsible for official controls.

Food fraud costs companies in the European Union (EU) billions of euros a year. The impact of often goes beyond economic losses. Fraud in the food chain can threaten public health, food quality and reputation. With the possible result being the loss of customers and trust.

A lack of confidence can also lead to lower tax revenues and trade. This is why the Commission wants to take appropriate enforcement measures. Competent authorities and enforcers need to be (more) aware of fraud risks.

What is fraud in the food chain?

EU legislation does not define "fraudulent or deceptive practices" or "fraud in the food chain". Regulation (EU) 2017/625 refers to "fraudulent or deceptive practices" in several provisions, but does not define them. Article 2(21) of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1715 defines "fraud notification" assuming cooperation between member states and exchange of information.

Key elements to consider in relation to fraud:

• "A notification of non-compliance in IT Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (iRASFF) regarding
• suspected intentional action by companies or individuals
• to mislead buyers and
• to take unwarranted advantage of it,
• which is contrary to the rules referred to in Article 1(2) of Regulation (EU) 2017/625."

Fraud affects businesses and consumers. The consequences are particularly financial when the fraud is linked to quality. Fraud can also pose a risk to human, animal or plant health, animal welfare and the environment. Also, the political risk associated with fraud should not be underestimated because fraud cases can undermine consumer confidence in official controls.

Risk-based controls

Conducting risk-based controls requires a proactive, innovative ("Think outside the box") and targeted approach according to the objectives of Article 9(2) of Regulation (EU) 2017/625. It includes:

• Identification of fraud risks (linking national strategy, horizon scanning, signals from various sources);
• A documented planning process based on a risk assessment;
• a planning process that specifically addresses the identified fraud risks

Overview of key elements for combating food fraud

Report: https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC131525