Risk analysis paradigm and total diet studies

Abstract

The risk analysis process is composed of three interrelated elements which are risk assessment, risk management, and risk communication. This chapter is describing the role of International Organizations in the implementation of this process for public health protection and the setting of food safety standards for international trade. Total Diet Studies are described in that context as a screening tool for a robust assessment of the mean food contamination in a country involved with the international market. These studies can also allow, when a risk is identified, to accurately estimate the dietary exposure of human populations.