Malta has officially established a new food control agency, bringing food safety functions under one umbrella.
Prime Minister Robert Abela said the Food Safety Authority will improve the management and protection of food security.
The agency, established by the Food Safety Authority Act 2025, is committed to ensuring that all food produced, processed or imported into Malta is safe, of high quality and traceable throughout the supply chain, from farmers and fishermen to producers, restaurants and consumers.
The body will monitor compliance with European and international laws and standards. It will regulate and coordinate controls throughout the food chain, issue licenses, permits and certificates to food industry operators, and maintain official registers covering things such as approved establishments. Public health will be protected through risk assessments, inspections, testing and monitoring.
Important milestone
Abela highlighted the government's investment in strengthening government food-related infrastructure through initiatives such as upgrading the public abattoir and introducing farm-to-table traceability systems for fruits and vegetables sold through Pitkalia, the local food market.
Anton Refalo, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, said the move was a significant milestone for the country as it was the first time all food safety functions were brought together under one national structure.
“This authority is the result of a clear vision and collective effort to create a more coordinated, transparent and science-based food system. With this move we are putting the consumer at the center of the system, while strengthening trust between farmers, shepherds, fishermen, entrepreneurs and Maltese and Gozitan families,” said Refalo.
Refalo said the creation of the body reaffirms the government's commitment to providing safe and high-quality food, while also preparing the country to address challenges such as climate change and food supply crises.
European support
Dr Nikolaus Kritz, Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), congratulated the Government and the Maltese people on the establishment of this body.
“This is an important milestone for Malta and great news for the entire European food safety system. By joining forces, we strengthen our ability to protect citizens, animals and the environment,” he said.
During a visit to Malta, Christoph Hansen, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, said: “I have listened to the concerns and hopes of farmers across the EU, and Malta is no exception. Despite our differences in Europe, agriculture's priorities here are just as strong, from ensuring food security to offering real prospects for young farmers.”
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