2024 EFSA Annual Report Emerging Risks and Horizon Scanning Activities

Abstract In 2024, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) continued to work with a strong global network of organisations to strengthen its preparedness for future risk analysis needs. The work focused on the identification and analysis of emerging issues, weak signals, trends and policy developments related to food and feed safety, plant health and animal health. EFSA collected a total of 65 emerging issues, of which 38 were further characterise d and seven identified as emerging risks. The majority of identified risks that required follow‐up were in the area of contaminants and biological hazards. EFSA also conducted horizon‐scanning and foresight activities, screening 19 reports and identifying 10 signals for further analysis. None of the signals required an update of EFSA's work programme or strategy. In 2025, EFSA will further strengthen collaboration with its partners through a multi‐agency horizon scanning exercise. This initiative, involving several EU agencies and Commission services, will adopt a One Health approach to support preparedness and develop future‐proof strategies.