Science on the Menu: A Food Safety Podcast by EFSA

Microplastics in food: What we (don’t) know 17.06.2026 20min

Microplastics are everywhere, from the oceans to our food, but what do we really know about their impact on our health? In this episode, we take a closer look at where microplastics come from, how they end up in food and drinking water, and what happens to them once they enter our bodies. Together with EFSA expert Elena Rovesti, we explore what science can already tell us, why so many uncertainties remain, and what research is under way to better understand the risks linked to microplastics in food.

Science communication: Taking misinformation off the menu 13.05.2026 18min

Science doesn’t end when the research is done. In this episode, we explore why how we talk about science matters just as much as the science itself. From food safety scares and fake news to insects, microplastics and AI, we look at how trust, transparency and audience awareness shape effective science communication. Joined by Barbara Gallani, EFSA’s Head of Communication and Partnerships, we discuss how to translate scientific evidence for different audiences, why perceptions matter, and how clear, coordinated communication helps people make sense of complex food safety issues.

EU career boost: EFSA is looking for you 08.04.2026 24min

How do young professionals from across the globe get a job at one of the world's leading food safety bodies? How did they turn challenges into opportunities for learning new skills and building lasting friendships? In this episode, we meet Simone, Santiago and Aeris — trainees in science, strategy and communication — who share their stories and tips for thriving in Italy’s food valley. Plus, hear from a former trainee about how EFSA shaped their career. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the traineeship experience and the vibrant community that powers EFSA!

Up to speed: How food risk assessment is changing 11.03.2026 21min

Keeping pace with change is a challenge for risk assessors. How are they innovating? How can they speed up their work? On this episode, we get a unique insight from Nik Kriz, head of the EU’s food safety agency. We hear his views on the EU’s food system, trust in science and how the top EU food assessor intends to stay relevant in an increasingly noisy and confusing world. From vet to science manager, we discover his professional journey and what leading an international organisation looks like. Join us for a view from the top!

No secret sauce: a recipe for transparent science 12.02.2026 21min

Access to documents is a crucial ingredient of open science. But how do lawyers assess what requires protecting and what to release? When do the courts intervene? In this episode, we explore how the law plays a fundamental role in our daily meals. We look at how the independence of scientists is evaluated and cases where intellectual property rights may be overridden. And we investigate how artificial intelligence is shaking up current legal frameworks. Join us as we digest the law behind your menu. 

Nice to m-eat you: what are alternative proteins? 14.01.2026 15min

Legumes, mealworm powder and duck cell biomass produced in a lab may seem worlds apart but they all feature in conversations about how our food system is evolving. We look at why so-called alternative proteins are getting so much interest across the world and why their future is such a hot topic. Together with our guest Ermolaos Ververis we discuss how their safety is assessed and bust some common myths along the way. Join us as we explore how food innovation is shaping our protein choices.

Bean there, cooked that: are raw legumes safe? 10.12.2025 13min

How we prepare our food influences its taste, aroma and appearance, but most importantly its safety. This is especially true for legumes such as beans and lentils, which contain substances called lectins that can be harmful to humans. Which type of lectins are the most damaging, and what can we learn from our ancestors when it comes to preparing traditional recipes safely? Join us as we explore safe preparation and cooking techniques that will help you enjoy nutritious legumes with confidence.

Cost, origin, taste: what influences our food choices? 19.11.2025 18min

What’s most important to you when you buy food? Is it how much it costs, how it tastes, where it comes from or something else? In this episode, we’re exploring the results of our latest Eurobarometer survey, how the survey is conducted and what it tells us about our food choices. We’ll look at where we get our information about food and whether concerns over food safety vary across Europe. And we’ll learn how social science research at EFSA improves how food safety risks are assessed and communicated. Join us as we unpack our behaviour at the supermarket. Host: Edward Bray, Communications Officer in the Communication Unit at EFSA  Guest: Joana Sousa Lourenco, Social Scientist in the Communication Unit at EFSA  Disclaimer: Views expressed by interviewees do not necessarily represent the official position of the European Food Safety Authority. All content is up to date at the time of publication.

Exposure matters: why the dose makes the poison 15.10.2025 19min

Apple seeds contain cyanide, a deadly poison. And yet, eating an apple will not kill you. In fact, it’s considered a healthy snack! That’s because it’s not just about what’s toxic but how much of it you are exposed to. In this episode, we take a closer look at the differences between hazards and risks and what that means for dangers that may be lurking in our food and drinks. We will also discuss how different groups may be affected, from the youngest to eldest, and why bodyweight is so important. Join us as we explore the impact our eating habits have on our exposure to chemicals and contaminants.

Data vs stereotypes: what Europeans eat 17.09.2025 14min

What do Europeans eat? On this episode, we’re talking food consumption data – how it is collected, what it shows and why it’s so important. Come explore with us why good data is crucial for shaping nutrition policies and keeping food safe. We’ll put some stereotypes to the test - is it true that Italians eat the most pasta? And who eats the most chocolate? And we’ll hear why the future of food data collection could involve AI monitoring chips on our teeth! Tune in and dive into a fascinating world of numbers that keep us healthy.

Sizzling summers: BBQ safety served hot 13.08.2025 20min

Barbecues have been popular for centuries. Traditions vary around the world, but shared enjoyment of slow-cooked food is universal. Whether you prefer to cook over charcoal, woodchip, gas or an electric grill, food safety remains critical.In this episode, we look at how the safety of our BBQ equipment is assessed and tips for staying safe when grilling. We also discuss our favourite BBQ recipes along the way! Join us as we explore the magic of safe barbecue.Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.

Food supplements: to add or not to add? 15.07.2025 19min

What are food supplements and do we need them? From sprays and soluble vitamins to fortified foods, we explore different ways to supplement our diets and the importance of sticking to recommended doses. Tune in to find out what supplements can and cannot do, and how their safety is assessed to help you make informed choices. Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.

Science in action: the people behind food safety 06.06.2025 23min

What do regulatory scientists do every day? Where are their lab coats? As we celebrate World Food Safety Day on June 7 and this year’s theme of Science in Action, we’re hearing from the scientists who help keep food safe. Come join us as we surprise them at their desks to see what they’re working on. We’ll explore whether regulatory science can keep pace with new research and innovation, and we’ll investigate the new frontiers of food science to find out what lies ahead! Come and enjoy science in action!Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.

Egg-stra special: spring food traditions 23.04.2025 20min

With the arrival of spring comes another episode celebrating festive foods! This time, we are diving into one of the most widely consumed products across Europe – eggs. Whether decorative, chocolate, or boiled, eggs play a central role in many springtime celebrations. Curious about how to dye an egg? Or how to win at a game of egg tapping? Join us as we explore these traditions and share tips on storing and enjoying eggs safely. Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.

Never mind the buzzkill: How mosquitoes spread disease 18.03.2025 19min

Tiny killers. Mosquitoes are the most dangerous creatures on our planet. Millions of humans and animals die each year from diseases spread by mosquitoes and other insects. How do they spread these diseases? And how does climate change affect the trend? Join us as we explore the lives of some of the planet’s least popular insects and learn what we can all do to protect ourselves from bites. We also look at ways health authorities are working to combat these vector-borne diseases. Tune in to find out what the buzz is all about!Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.

Women in science: In their words 11.02.2025 26min

What is the reality of being a female scientist in Europe? In celebration of the International Day of Girls and Women in Science on 11 February, we’re exploring women in science. How far have we come in ensuring women’s voices are the norm in science? What does the journey toward greater female representation look like from the perspective of someone living it every day? To find out, we turned to our own Océane Albert, who shared her experiences as a former researcher, now scientist in EFSA’s novel food team, and a new mum. Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.

Riding the wave: How shifting oceans shape our food 14.01.2025 13min

Oceans have long captivated our imagination. Think of swashbuckling pirates or bold explorers seeking far off lands. Today the oceans represent a new frontier. Beneath the seafloor lie precious minerals that could drive technological innovation. Ocean aquaculture could address sustainability issues from farming on land. Climate change is opening new sea routes for trade. But what are the risks for food safety? How could changing uses of the oceans affect our food supply? Join us as we explore the ocean deep! Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.

Festive foods: What’s behind the traditions? 19.12.2024 14min

Food is always a key part of the festivals we celebrate at the end of the year. But what’s the meaning behind the traditions we attach to them? What foods are thought to bring wealth and good fortune? Why are some foods avoided? Join us as we journey through different countries and their culinary traditions. Listen in for some curious facts and even a few red herrings. You’ll also gather food safety tips along the way! Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.

Food additives: Can I have your E number? 20.11.2024 18min

We’ve been looking for ways to preserve food for millennia. Salt helped many civilisations develop. We pickled food in vinegar and stored fruit in honey. But for what purpose are food additives used today? And how did the emergence of supermarkets change this? What about health risks? Join us as we take some foods off the shelves to investigate! Listen out for tips on maintaining a healthy diet and how to decipher what’s on your food labels.Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.

Fighting Xylella, the silent plant killer 31.10.2024 16min

Olive trees are an iconic feature of the landscape and cultural heritage in southern Italy. But a deadly bacterium, Xylella fastidiosa, has left parts of the Apulia region looking like a wasteland. Is there any hope? Millions of trees are dead, and the bacterium threatens to spread further north, to other plant species too. What’s being done to stop its spread? What lessons can we learn? Join us to find out how scientists are fighting back and how green shoots of resistance mean olives trees may return once more! Your opinion matters! Please take this brief survey to share your thoughts on our podcast.