The overall objectives of the BTSF Training Programme/Course on
To spread knowledge and best practices in relation to the EU approach for the evaluation, authorisation, monitoring and control of food additives, flavourings and enzymes. The programme includes new practical-oriented features to facilitate understanding of the legislation and its enforcement
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- Legal Framework of Food Improvement Agents
- Design of Official Controls on FIA
- Guidance documents on Food additives,
- Guidance document on the classification of a food ingredient with colouring properties
- New Guidance Document of EU explaining the carry over principle
- Q/A on food flavourings
- New publication on authorised enzymes
- Annex on colouring food materials (currently developed by the JRC).
- Summary of RASFF notifications on FIA and use of RASFF Database
- Monitoring of food additives intake
- Common methodology for the gathering of information from the Member States
- Preparation of Official Controls Plans on FIA
- Objectives of control plans,
- Identification and involvement of authorities in control plans, including laboratories
- Implementation of national control plans on FIA in a uniform way
- Elements to consider for prioritisation in FIA (risk coming from the use, likelihood of misleading, past records, reliability of own controls by operators or third party).
- Examples of different risk ranking tools. Identification and selection of additives and flavourings to be consider a priority
- Description of the food chain in case of FIA, specific considerations for the identification and categorisation of food business operators to be controlled for additives, enzymes and flavourings
- Selection of the most appropriate methods for official controls on FIAs, inspection, GMP, audits of HACCP, monitoring surveys, sampling and analysis.
- Implementation of official controls
- Inspection procedures, sampling strategies
- Measures to be taken in case of infringements. Follow up actions’ efficacy and effectivity of the control plan
- Definition of Indicators, collection of data and analysis of the results
- Communication strategies applicable to the official control of FIA
- Diagnostic of training needs and organisation of training plans
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- The training course is targeted at staff of the competent authorities who are involved in the planning of control activities in the field of food improvement agents, and/or are in charge of auditing in central/regional authorities.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 | 03/04/2023 | 07/04/2023 | Valencia | Spain |
3R | 15/05/2023 | 19/05/2023 | Riga | Latvia |

BTSF Training Programme on Auditing general hygiene requirements and control procedures based on the HACCP principles developed by FBOs
This Course will allow participants to improve their knowledge and practical skills in:
- EU legislation and relevant international standards.
- Background and principles of HACCP and HACCP methodology, development of HACCP plans and document management.
- HACCP methodology, development of HACCP plans and document management.
- The students will learn the Implementation and validation of HACCP plans as well theInformation on the different materials used in Food Contact Materials.
- Finally they will able to audit principles and management, to verify implementation of HACCP systems and compliance with food and feed requirements.
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- Topic 1. HACCP overview
- Topic 2. Prerequisites programmes
- Topic 3. HACCP method and plan
- Topic 4. The audit process
- Topic 5. Guides and flexibility
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- Staff of competent authorities performing planning and control activities in the food sector (preferably at central level)
- Field inspectors involved in official control activities in food establishments
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
TS01 | 07/11/2022 | 11/11/2022 | Prague | Czech Republic |
TS02 | 12/12/2022 | 16/12/2022 | Athens | Greece |
TS03 | 30/01/2023 | 03/02/2023 | Lisbon | Portugal |
TS04 | 27/02/2023 | 03/03/2023 | Athens | Greece |
TS05 | 27/03/2023 | 31/03/2023 | Lyon | France |
TS06 | 15/05/2023 | 19/05/2023 | Prague | Czech Republic |
TS07 | 19/06/2023 | 23/06/2023 | Riga | Latvia |
TS08 | 11/09/2023 | 15/09/2023 | Riga | Latvia |
TS09 | 16/10/2023 | 20/10/2023 | Riga | Latvia |
TS10 | 13/11/2023 | 17/11/2023 | Prague | Czech Republic |
TS11 | 11/12/2023 | 15/12/2023 | Lisbon | Portugal |
TS12 | 29/01/2024 | 02/02/2024 | Athens | Greece |
TS13 | 26/02/2024 | 01/03/2024 | Lisbon | Portugal |

The objectives of Course 1: EU regulations and guidelines applicable to the control of contaminants are:
- Harmonising the understanding of EU requirements for the controls on contaminants
- Improving the general knowledge on contaminants, their sources and existing EU guidelines for their prevention
- Promoting exchanges and cooperation within EU
Target audience
Please verify compliance with the following selection criteria before applying:
- Competent Authority staff responsible for the control of contaminants in feed and food
- basic knowledge of the area is sufficient to take part in the course
- have preferably not attended CTM Phase 1 (2017-2018) training for the same course
- have relevant educational background and professional experience
- commit to disseminate the obtained knowledge among stakeholders in their home country
- have a good working level of English
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
VC01 | 12/04/2021 | 16/04/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC03 | 10/05/2021 | 14/05/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC04 | 31/05/2021 | 04/06/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC05 | 07/06/2021 | 11/06/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC06 | 28/06/2021 | 02/07/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC08 | 04/10/2021 | 08/10/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC09 | 25/10/2021 | 29/10/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC11 | 06/12/2021 | 10/12/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC13 | 31/01/2022 | 04/02/2022 | n/a | n/a |
VC14 | 07/03/2022 | 11/03/2022 | n/a | n/a |
VC17 | 30/05/2022 | 03/06/2022 | n/a | n/a |

BTSF Training Programme on Contaminants Course 2 (Advanced).
The specific objectives of the BTSF training activities on pesticide equipment are to further improve the knowledge of the control requirements by bringing together participants from different Member States and selected non-EU countries and to allow the exchange of experience and disseminate best practices for control activities and procedures.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
VC02 | 26/04/2021 | 30/04/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC07 | 13/09/2021 | 17/09/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC10 | 08/11/2021 | 12/11/2021 | n/a | n/a |
VC12 | 17/01/2022 | 21/01/2022 | n/a | n/a |
VC15 | 28/03/2022 | 01/04/2022 | n/a | n/a |
VC16 | 02/05/2022 | 06/05/2022 | n/a | n/a |
VC18 | 27/06/2022 | 01/07/2022 | CANCELLED | CANCELLED |

The overall objective of the BTSF Training Programme/Course on
Content
The topics covered in the training programme are:
- What is new on novel foods and on traditional foods from third countries
- The EU legal framework applicable to Novel Foods and Traditional Food from third countries
- The EU/National regulatory bodies involved in assessment and authorization of novel and Traditional foods
- Article 4 requests
- The major novel foods and traditional foods and their classification
- Categorisation of novel and traditional foods
- The Regulation 2015/2283
- How to prepare a novel foods application
- How to prepare a traditional foods notification and application
- The outcome of a successful application
- The differences between risk assessment (what EFSA actually does) and risk management (how the Member States and the Commission in the Novel Foods WG respond)
- How to submit a dossier through the e-submission system
- Labelling of Novel Foods
Target audience
This training programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the criteria before applying.
Officials from Competent Authorities in the beneficiary non-EU countries involved, preferably at central level, verifying compliance with rules applicable to placing novel foods and traditional foods on the EU market and from one of the following categories:
- Decision/policy makers / senior officers from Food safety competent authorities
- Decision/policy makers / senior officers from Food export competent authorities
- Decision/policy makers / senior officers from Public Health competent authorities
- Senior officers from already existing national and/or regional networks on topics links to Novel Food
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 18/02/2020 | 21/02/2020 | Bangkok | Thailand |
2 | 30/01/2023 | 02/02/2023 | Amman | Jordan |
3 | 28/03/2023 | 31/03/2023 | San José | Costa Rica |
4 | 25/04/2023 | 28/04/2023 | Buenos Aires | Argentina |
5 | 30/05/2023 | 01/06/2023 | Dakar | Senegal |
6 | 04/07/2023 | 06/07/2023 | Addis Ababa | Ethiopia |
7 | 26/09/2023 | 29/09/2023 | Beijing | China |
8 | 31/10/2023 | 03/11/2023 | Delhi | India |
9 | 28/11/2023 | 01/12/2023 | Chisinau | Moldova |

The main purpose of the workshop is to familiarise experts, in the areas of food of animal and non-animal origin and related EU requirements, with the role that they will perform if invited to participate, in Directorate F controls that involve mainly audit and fact-finding missions.
The workshop comprises two sections with the first one targeting experts for food of non-animal origin/laboratory; food labelling, nutrition and health claims; e-commerce; FCM and additives. The second section will cover food of animal origin and will target experts from meat, dairy (incl. laboratory) and fishery product sectors.

The extended objectives of the BTSF Training Programme on Food contact materials - Audit of plastic recycling processes for FCM are:
- Be able to analyse a quality assurance system and evaluate its relevance and appropriateness to the business and the risks associated with its activities;
- Understand the audit process as a whole. Know and be able to perform audits of recycling premises;
- Acquire the necessary tools and methods to disseminate the knowledge gained through the training course in their home countries;
- Deepen their knowledge related to methods and tools that can be used in the design, implementation and verification of quality assurance systems;
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- Topic 1. EU legislation, risk assessment and authorisation processes
- Topic 2. Plastic recycling processes and quality systems
- Topic 3. Audit of recycling premises
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
Applicants must be:
- staff of competent authorities performing auditing of plastic recycling processes for food contact materials
- have experience have experience in auditing and other controls of recyclers including setting up audit plans
- have have a good working level of English
- be inspectors of food, food contact materials and plastic recycling and covering premises, who will be involved in the actual audits and controls of recycling premises and if relevant down-stream users
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 04/02/2020 | 07/02/2020 | Leipzig | Germany |
2 | 09/05/2023 | 12/05/2023 | Leipzig | Germany |
3 | 20/06/2023 | 23/06/2023 | Vienna | Austria |
4 | 10/10/2023 | 13/10/2023 | Treviso | Italy |
5 | 14/11/2023 | 17/11/2023 | Vienna | Austria |
6 | 20/02/2024 | 23/02/2024 | Treviso | Italy |

The specific objective of the present BTSF programme on Food Contact Materials - Control, Marketing & Use is to spread knowledge and best practices in relation to the EU approach for the control, use and marketing of Food Contact Materials.
Under this programme, participants will better understand how to apply the official controls and respective regulations regarding the Food Contact Materials. The training will utilise presentations, site visits (in person and virtual), case studies, and discussion on best practises to ensure better enforcement of EU rules specifically with regard to:
- Control of the whole food contact materials chain and the compliance of the FCM manufacturing and importing establishments with the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004.
- Examination of written materials and in particular the specifications regarding declaration of compliance for food contact materials.
- Assessment of the implementation of good manufacturing practice by FBOs, and decision taking.
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- Topic 1. Overview of Legal Provisions and the different Materials and articles of Food Contact Materials (LPM)
- Topic 2. Official Controls of Plants (Recycling Plant, Converting Plants and Food industry), with focus on DoC and SD (OCP)
- Topic 3. Good Manufacturing Practices and Quality Management System (GMP)
- Topic 4. National Control Plan and role of Laboratory (NCP)
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
Applicants must be staff of competent authorities with previous experience in FCM-related activities such as:
- formulation of control plans and policy
- implementation of controls
- and/or inspection of FCM premises
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
12 | 25/09/2023 | 28/09/2023 | Valencia | Spain |
13 | 16/10/2023 | 19/10/2023 | Porto | Portugal |
14 | 20/11/2023 | 23/11/2023 | Bratislava | Slovakia |
15 | 22/01/2024 | 25/01/2024 | Bologna | Italy |
16 | 04/03/2024 | 07/03/2024 | Valencia | Spain |
17 | 15/04/2024 | 18/04/2024 | Bratislava | Slovakia |
18 | 27/05/2024 | 30/05/2024 | Bologna | Italy |
19 | 08/07/2024 | 11/07/2024 | Bratislava | Slovakia |
20 | 09/09/2024 | 12/09/2024 | Porto | Portugal |
21 | 21/10/2024 | 24/10/2024 | Valencia | Spain |

The overall objectives of the BTSF Training Programme/Course on
- How to apply the harmonised regulation, theoretical and practical training regarding common aspects to every type of FIA,
- How to apply quantum satis and carry over principles, and specific modules addressing respectively food additives, flavourings and enzymes.
- Understanding EU regulations and guidelines on food improvement agents and inspection practices
- informing regulatory and control authorities about the new approach enacted for the evaluation, authorisation and control of food additives, flavourings and enzymes.
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- Module A.1 Common aspects applicable to food additives, flavourings and enzymes
- Module A.2 EU provisions on food additives
- Module A.3 EU provisions on food flavourings
- Module A.4 EU provisions on food enzymes
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- Relevant technical background: participants should preferably have the necessary knowledge in the relevant legislation and controls of food improvement agents
- Relevancy to daily work: participants should, in priority, be staff of the competent authorities and be involved in the control of food products as field inspector or regulatory officer.
- Sufficient level of English language: in order to ensure the transfer of knowledge and opportunities to exchange views, participants should master the language of the training session for which they applied;
- Ability to share their experience: priority will be given to participants whose position will allow them to share with colleagues the outputs of the training sessions
Additional text target audience.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country | Language | Registration deadline |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9 | 19/09/2022 | 23/09/2022 | Warsaw | Poland | EN | 15/07/2022 |
10 | 31/10/2022 | 04/11/2022 | Athens | Greece | EN | 12/09/2022 |

The overall objectives of the BTSF Training Programme/Course on
- Raise awareness on all aspects related to control on Mycotoxins in food and feed.
- Underline the need of assuring correct sampling procedures to reduce the error in the analytical results.
- Improve the practical knowledge on simple and more advanced analytical methods to enhance the degree of accuracy and widen the number of substances determined
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- Topic 1. Introduction to mycotoxins
- Topic 2. EU and international legislation and official controls
- Topic 3. Mitigation of mycotoxins
- Topic 4. Risk assessment
- Topic 5. Sampling procedures
- Topic 6. Sample preparation
- Topic 7. Validation of analytical methods
- Topic 8. Screening methods
- Topic 9. Confirmatory methods
- Topic 10. Quality management
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
Candidates must be staff of food testing laboratories (public or private) designated to perform official mycotoxins control. Participants must commit themselves to disseminate the knowledge received during the seminar among stakeholders in their home institutions / countries. As the seminar will be conducted in English, each nominated candidate must have a good (not basic) working level of English.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 02/12/2019 | 13/12/2019 | Rome | Italy |
2 | 17/02/2020 | 28/02/2020 | Madrid | Spain |
- | 14/11/2022 | 25/11/2022 | Postponed | Postponed |
3 | 20/02/2023 | 03/03/2023 | Rome | Italy |
4 | 22/05/2023 | 02/06/2023 | Madrid | Spain |

The overall project objective is to develop the ability of laboratory staff and management from non-EU countries to apply the sampling and analysis methods used in official food and feed controls. Considering the specificities of the PPP area, the goals of the European legislation, as well as the overall strategy of the BTSF initiative, the following objectives for this training course have been formulated:
- Raise awareness on all aspects related to control on residues of PPP in food and feed.
- Underline the need of assuring correct sampling procedures to reduce the error in the analytical results.
- Support the application of quality management standards for the laboratories to increase their performance and reliability levels.
- Improve the practical knowledge on simple and more advanced analytical methods to enhance the degree of accuracy and widen the number of substances determined.
- Underline the need of assuring correct sampling procedures to reduce the error in the analytical results.
- Foster exchange of best practices and ideas to increase the efficacy of knowledge transfer in analytical activities.
- Encourage networking and dissemination of knowledge among the trainees.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 30/09/2029 | 11/10/2019 | Athens | Greece |
2 | 01/05/2023 | 12/05/2023 | Stuttgart | Germany / CANCELLED |
3 | 12/06/2023 | 23/06/2023 | Poznan | Poland |

The Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA, formerly Chafea) organised, on behalf of the European Commission’s Health and Food Safety Directorate-General (DG SANTE), a cycle of 10 training sessions in the field of sampling and analysis methods used in the context of official food and feed controls within the “Better Training for Safer Food” initiative.
In total, 155 participants coming from selected non-EU countries in Eastern ENP and Mediterranean basin region, Central and South America, Africa and Asia have been invited during the project’s Phase 1 (2019-2020).
Objectives
The
- The overall project objective is to develop the ability of laboratory staff and management from non-EU countries to apply the sampling and analysis methods used in official food and feed controls. Considering the specificities of the VMP area, the goals of the European legislation, as well as the overall strategy of the BTSF initiative, the following objectives for this training course have been formulated:
- Raise awareness on all aspects related to control on residues of VMP in food and feed.
- Underline the need of assuring correct sampling procedures to reduce the error in the analytical results.
- Support the application of quality management standards for the laboratories to increase their performance and reliability levels.
- Improve the practical knowledge on simple and more advanced analytical methods to enhance the degree of accuracy and widen the number of substances determined.
- Foster exchange of best practices and ideas to increase the efficacy of knowledge transfer in analytical activities.
- Encourage networking and dissemination of knowledge among the trainees.
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- Topic 1: EU and international legislation, official controls and development of residues testing programmes.
- Topic 2: Import controls.
- Topic 3: Sampling, sample preparation and management.
- Topic 4: Methods validation.
- Topic 5: Screening methods.
- Topic 6: Confirmatory techniques and results analysis.
- Topic 7: Quality management in the laboratory.
Target audience
The training is addressed to staff and management of public or private food testing laboratories designated to perform official controls on residues of VMP. The applicants must have a relevant professional and educational background, commit to disseminate the obtained knowledge among stakeholders in their home country and have a good working level of English.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 08/07/2019 | 19/07/2019 | Dublin | Ireland |
2 | 11/11/2019 | 22/11/2019 | Porto/Vila do Conde | Portugal |
3 | 23/03/2020 | 03/04/2020 | Dublin/CANCELLED | Ireland/CANCELLED |
4 | 10/10/2022 | 21/10/2022 | Dublin | Ireland |

The overall objectives of the BTSF Training Programme/Course on
- To improve knowledge and skills of control staff on specific investigation techniques used to identify food fraud (FF) or to perform official control duties on e-commerce of food and food related products, disseminating best practices and enabling the exchange of practical experience.
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- To give tools and techniques to design, implement and manage food fraud units.
- To promote risk based investigations.
- To spread the knowledge on methods and investigation techniques for the prevention of food fraud.
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- Officials from inspection bodies: ideally involved in planning and organizing control activities (preferably at central level) and Police investigators/ Customs.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 04/10/2021 | 08/10/2021 | Virtual Classroom | Not applicable |
2 | 29/11/2021 | 03/12/2021 | Virtual Classroom | Not applicable |
3 | 14/02/2022 | 18/02/2022 | Virtual Classroom | Not applicable |
4 | 02/05/2022 NEW DATES! |
06/05/2022 NEW DATES! |
Virtual Classroom - POSTPONED | ORIGINNALLY 4-8/04/2022 |
5 | 26/09/2022 | 29/09/2022 | Tallinn | Estonia |
6 | 07/11/2022 | 10/11/2022 | Sevilla | Spain |
7 | 17/04/2023 | 20/04/2023 | Lisbon | Portugal |

The BTSF Training Programme on Food fraud/ e-commerce - Investigation techniques: E-commerce Basic was launched in 2013, as cases of food fraud were increasing, reaching a great dissemination by the Media at the time of the famous horse meat scandal.
- Food fraud cases can affect the whole food chain, sometimes using very sophisticated techniques, to avoid being detected. Internet offers multiple choices and options; complete command of these tools should be known and used by those fighting against food fraud products sold in internet.
- The current challenge not only requires new IT tools, but a better use of the information, methods and integrate this information in a more coordinated way, using the skills and expertise of food fraud units to attend these needs, and working in collaboration among administrations, between food safety authorities, police and judicial bodies.
- It also helps to disseminate best practices for official controls when flexibility is applied.
This course focuses on General investigation and control techniques.
Target audience
Officials from inspection bodies: ideally involved in planning and organizing control activities (preferably at central level) and Police investigators/ Customs.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 27/09/2021 | 01/10/2021 |
Virtual Classroom | Not applicable |
2 | 18/10/2021 | 22/10/2021 | Virtual Classroom | Not applicable |
3 | 25/04/2022 | 29/04/2022 | Virtual Classroom | Not applicable |
4 | 15/05/2023 | 18/05/2023 | Budapest | Hungary |

The
The current challenge not only require new IT tools, but a better use of the information, methods and integrate this information in a more coordinated way, using the skills and expertise of food fraud units to attend these needs, and working in collaboration among administrations, between food safety authorities, police and judicial bodies.
This course focuses on E-commerce of food.
Objectives
The
- To provide tools and techniques to identify internet food business operating and detect those not following the legal requirements; facilitate practical training on internet trading investigation; and spread knowledge on methods to investigate in different internet platforms, and learn practical and legal requirements to undertake official controls on internet food business; and ensure that the participants have a solid understanding of channels of communication, cooperation with different administrations and market stakeholders.
Topics EC1 Legal framework for internet control, hands on IT training, EU legislation, legal aspects and control purchase, setting up an IT system for internet investigations, International cooperation and cross border cooperation, future of on-line investigations. Lectures and practical exercises with laptops.
These are the same objectives as in the course "E-commerce standard level", however the level to reach will be higher as long as the practical exercises requested. Demonstrated experience in investigating food frauds in the internet is compulsory to attend.
EU legislation and law infringements, advanced level investigation tools, setting up contacts, cross border cooperation, future of on-line investigations. Practical approach and active contributions from participants is expected.
Target audience
Enforcement staff currently working in internet search or control unit; same requirements as for Course B1, and indicate having at least 3 years’ experience working in competent authorities related to Internet investigations of food frauds. To attend, participants will have to provide information of one case study in which they have participated. This ensures previous knowledge of basic IT investigation techniques in order to be able to put hands on training knowing the basic tools and experience to make basic investigations.
For the three courses, participants should be able to work and make interventions in English, and compromise to disseminate the learnings gained. Guidance on how to disseminate the knowledge will be provided during the sessions, and a follow up questionnaire will be performed to participants attending.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 14/03/2022 | 18/03/2022 | Virtual Course | Not applicable |
2 | 13/06/2022 | 16/06/2022 | Madrid | Spain |
3 | 17/10/2022 | 20/10/2022 | Budapest | Hungary |

The
- to develop cooperation activities with non-EU trade partners with a view to improve the effectiveness of official control systems in relation to fraudulent practices across the agri-food chain, including Internet sales, and their ability to detect frauds.
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- EU Control System and consistency with international trade rules (WTO, SPS, TBT);
- Organisation of the official controls on agri-food products in the EU: legal framework and practical experiences;
- Competent Authorities and Food Business Operators’ responsibilities and rules governing trade and imports of agri-food products from non-EU countries;
- EU information management systems and e-certification;
- Good practices, procedures and requirements relating to issuance of e-certificate: practical examples;
- Overview on EU agri-food fraud policy;
- Vulnerability of the food chain to agri-food fraud;
- Agri-food fraud: competent authorities and industry prevention role; Vulnerability analyses and control prioritisation;
- Investigation techniques: introduction to criminal law related to the food area, theory and practical examples of investigation, how to use control rules to investigate a suspicion of fraud, Good practices, tools and procedures relating to investigation techniques;
- Conducting an investigation: basic rules and practical examples;
- Overview on EU digital trade and EU e-commerce policy;
- Controls on e-commerce: risk assessment, IT tools and evidence gathering, control purchase; Good practices on e-commerce surveillance for preventing threats;
- Cooperation on e-commerce (cooperation with stakeholders including trading, producer and consumer organisations and market places/selling platforms, cross-border cooperation);
- Establishing communication channels with police and judiciary authorities;
- Setting up permanent information gathering from consumers;
- Setting up permanent information gathering from "whistleblowers".
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- officials from competent authorities in non-EU countries involved in planning and organising official control activities (preferably at national/regional levels) in relation to fraudulent practices across the agri-food chain.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country | Language | Registration deadline |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 10/10/2022 | 13/10/2022 | Amman | Jordan | EN | 10/09/2022 |
2 | 30/01/2023 | 02/02/2023 | Buenos Aires | Argentina | EN/SP | 02/01/2023 |
3 | 06/03/2023 | 09/03/2023 | Addis Abeba | Ethiopia | EN | 06/02/2023 |
4 | 24/04/2023 | 27/04/2023 | Danang | Vietnam | EN | 20/03/2023 |
5 | 29/05/2023 | 01/06/2023 | Astana | Kazakhistan | EN/RU | 02/05/2023 |
CANCELLED | ||||||
6 | 10/07/2023 | 13/07/2023 | Bangalore | India | EN | 08/06/2023 |
7 | 16/10/2023 | 19/10/2023 | Casablanca | Morocco | EN/FR | 11/09/2013 |
8 | 30/10/2023 | 03/11/2023 | Bogotà | Colombia | EN | 25/09/2023 |

Welcome to the BTSF Training Programme on Food hygiene-flexibility.
In order to protect food diversity and to serve consumers and the needs of small-scale producers, EU legislation provides ample possibilities to adapt the technical requirements of the Food Hygiene Package in function of the nature of the food business concerned. Information and training can be strategic tools to help the Member States to develop a better understanding of the provisions and fine-tune use of flexibility measures contained in the hygiene Regulations.
Target audience
- Inspections of small processing establishments of food of animal and non-animal origin.
- Approval of food-producing/processing establishments and risk-based controls.
- Notification procedure.
- HACCP and sampling plans.
- Microbiological criteria.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 20/09/2021 | 24/09/2021 | VC | VC |
2 | 18/10/2021 | 22/10/2021 | VC | VC |
3 | 29/11/2021 | 03/12/2021 | VC | VC |
4 | 07/02/2022 | 11/02/2022 | VC | VC |
5 | 21/03/2022 | 25/03/2022 | VC | VC |
6 | 16/05/2022 | 20/05/2022 | Turin | Italy |
7 | 06/06/2022 | 10/06/2022 | Vilnius | Lithuania |
8 | 04/07/2022 | 08/07/2022 | Viseu | Portugal |
9 | 17/10/2022 | 21/10/2022 | Turin | Italy |
Cancelled | 21/11/2022 | 25/11/2022 | Barcelona | Spain |
10 | 16/01/2023 | 20/01/2023 | Barcelona | Spain |
11 | 13/02/2023 | 17/02/2023 | Turin |
Italy |
12 | 13/03/2023 | 17/03/2023 | Girona | Spain |
13 | 17/04/2023 | 21/04/2023 | Porto | Portugal |
14 | 08/05/2023 | 12/05/2023 | Zagreb |
Croatia |
15 | 05/06/2023 | 09/06/2023 | Turin |
Italy |
16 | 18/09/2023 | 22/09/2023 | Vilnius | Lithuania |

The
The European Union (EU) has developed a wide range of measures aimed at ensuring a high standard of hygiene during food production and proper control of foodstuffs. Some of these rules apply to all food business operators, cover the entire food chain and deal with all types of food. Others are directed to competent authorities in charge of controlling the food chain.
The Commission in collaboration with Member States issued several guidance documents in order to elaborate and give practical examples of some of the complex requirements mentioned in Regulations (EC) No 852/2004 and No 853/2004, including the one concerning implementation of procedures based on the HACCP principles. Regulation 2017/625 has a general scope covering official controls over the entire food chain. It aims at ensuring a harmonised approach and creates a high level of expertise with regard to official control activities for the verification of compliance with SPS rules.
The overall objectives are:
- To know the new framework and legislative requirements in the performance of official control of animal origin, especially on food hygiene and controls of meat;
- To interpret the EU Commission’s point of view on how to best implement the new legislation;
- To harmonize enforcement of the legislation and indicate weak points of official controls in the past;
- To intervene and take part in the discussions among participants and tutors in order to promote an exchange of knowledge based on previous experience.
Content
The topics addressed in the courses will include:
- Legislative requirements concerning registration and/or (conditional) approval of establishments and in particular low-capacity establishments;
- General and meat specific hygiene requirements and HACCP-based procedures, traceability, welfare issues and special focus on topics/peculiarities regarding steps at and beyond slaughter (minced meat, meat preparations and meat products), etc.;
- Official controls concerning primary production, inspections in slaughterhouses, game-handling and other meat establishments, peculiarities with regard to fresh meat, farmed game, wild game, emergency slaughter, risk-based inspection, use of flexibility provisions, etc.;
- Official controls concerning microbiological criteria, sampling methods, requirements for Trichinella examination and other specialised inspection procedures, etc.;
- On-the-spot visits followed by debriefing sessions within establishments involved in the production or processing of meat and/or meat products.
Target audience
The training is addressed both to:
- a) officials from Competent Authorities involved in planning control activities on meat hygiene (preferably at central and/or regional level);
- b) field inspectors involved in control activities on meat hygiene, including meat inspection
The selection of participants will be carried out by the National Contact Points.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 23/05/2022 | 27/05/2022 | Valencia | Spain |
2 | 17/10/2022 | 21/10/2022 | Valencia | Spain |
3 | 12/12/2022 |
16/12/2022 | Dublin | Ireland |
4 | 13/02/2023 | 17/02/2023 | Rome | Italy |
5 | 13/03/2023 | 17/03/2023 | Vienna | Austria |
6 | 24/04/2023 | 28/04/2023 | Muenster | Germany |
7 | 08/05/2023 | 12/05/2023 | Valencia | Spain |
8 | 05/06/2023 | 09/06/2023 | Dublin | Ireland |
9 | 11/09/2023 | 15/09/2023 | Muenster | German |
10 | 09/10/2023 | 13/10/2023 | Rome | Italy |

The overall objectives of the
- To develop a broad knowledge of different hazards (chemical, biological and physical) that can occur along the food chain;
- To provide information about problems that are inherent to specific production, processing, conservation and distribution methotds to identify non-compliance and fraudulent practices;
- To raise awarness and develop knowledge about the EU laws and ensure their correct enforcement;
- To promote a harmonised approch to the operation of EU and national control systems by sharing best practices.
Selection Criteria
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- Staff of Competent Authorities involved in official control activities.
- It should be clear from their background and professional position that the participation in the training activity is a key element for the improvement of their skills and competence for their job.
- The trainees should have the required technical skills related to the fields mentioned under.
- The course will be held in English. In order to be able to understand and actively participate in the sessions, exercises and case studies, we invite you to give priority to only register the participants who can read and speak English.
- The participants will be requested to commit themselves to use the knowledge gained from the courses and also disseminate it via different dissemination methods i.e. informing colleagues about the information received at the training, distributing (photocopying or sending via electronic way) the training material among their colleagues, preparing informative articles in the professional national or, if possible, in international journals, preparing presentations based on the training material for the National Competent Authorities’ professional trainings or other dissemination methods which could be appropriate to share the information received via the BTSF trainings.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
3 | 20/11/2023 | 24/11/2023 | Vigo | Spain |
4 | 12/02/2024 | 16/02/2024 | Treviso | Italy |
6 | 08/04/2024 | 12/04/2024 | Treviso | Italy |

BTSF Training Programme on Food hygiene primary production - domestic land animals
Content
Training courses will consist of a mix of theoretical and practical sessions The training courses will improve practical application of the EU provisions, legislations and precautionary measures related to general hygiene rules and controls applying to food business rearing domestic land animals (e.g. cattle, pigs and poultry) or producing primary products of animal origin derived thereof.
These trainings are meant to strengthen the NCA and to ensure a harmonized approach on the implementation of legislation and official controls throughout the EU member states. Such approach ensures and maintains a high level of consumer protection and animal, promotes a harmonized approach to the operation of Community and national control systems, enhances trade of safe food and creates an equal level playing field for all food businesses.
The legislative “Food Package” dates of 2004 and as evolved ever since, adapting to the reality and answering the needs and the crisis that arose since that date. Guides to good practices were created and proven to be very useful to the Veterinary Officers/Inspectors/Official Staff of the NCA and also to the primary producers all around Europe.
A big part of the needs assessment on these fields, in terms of training, is obtained through the FVO Audits results, DG Health and Food Safety audits and inspections and from the feedback given by the MS.
Training on Official controls on this area of primary production (meat) is proven to be essential and a recurrent need to several EU countries. Once all the legislative context is explained, several specific topics on each domain will be discussed; adding to this, a wide and relevant practical content using innovative methods and tools and a field visit will give an in-depth big picture of the training subjects.
For each topic a specialized team of experts was gathered paying close attention not only to their scientific and technical knowledge but also to their training and communication competences.
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- Staff of Competent Authorities involved in official control activities.
Selection Criteria
- It should be clear from their background and professional position that the participation in the training activity is a key element for the improvement of their skills and competence for their job.
- The trainees should have the required technical skills related to the fields mentioned under.
- The course will be held in English. In order to be able to understand and actively participate in the sessions, exercises and case studies, we invite you to give priority to only register the participants who can read and speak English.
- The participants will be requested to commit themselves to use the knowledge gained from the courses and also disseminate it via different dissemination methods i.e. informing colleagues about the information received at the training, distributing (photocopying or sending via electronic way) the training material among their colleagues, preparing informative articles in the professional national or, if possible, in international journals, preparing presentations based on the training material for the National Competent Authorities’ professional trainings or other dissemination methods which could be appropriate to share the information received via the BTSF trainings.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
5 | 04/03/2024 | 08/03/2024 | Vienna | Austria |
11 | 14/10/2024 | 18/10/2024 | Vienna | Austria |

The overall objectives of the
- Develop a broad knowledge of different hazards (chemical, biological and physical) that can occur along the food chain;
- Provide information about problems that are inherent to specific production, processing, conservation and distribution methotds to identify non-compliance and fraudulent practices;
- Raise awarness and develop knowledge about the EU laws and ensure their correct enforcement;
- Promote a harmonised approch to the operation of EU and national control systems by sharing best practices.
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- Staff of Competent Authorities involved in official control activities.
Selection Criteria
- It should be clear from their background and professional position that the participation in the training activity is a key element for the improvement of their skills and competence for their job.
- The trainees should have the required technical skills related to the fields mentioned under.
- The course will be held in English. In order to be able to understand and actively participate in the sessions, exercises and case studies, we invite you to give priority to only register the participants who can read and speak English.
- The participants will be requested to commit themselves to use the knowledge gained from the courses and also disseminate it via different dissemination methods i.e. informing colleagues about the information received at the training, distributing (photocopying or sending via electronic way) the training material among their colleagues, preparing informative articles in the professional national or, if possible, in international journals, preparing presentations based on the training material for the National Competent Authorities’ professional trainings or other dissemination methods which could be appropriate to share the information received via the BTSF trainings.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
10 | 07/10/2024 | 11/10/2024 | Vigo | Spain |
12 | 25/11/2024 | 29/11/2024 | Vigo | Spain |

The overall objectives of the
- to develop a broad knowledge of different hazards (chemical, biological and physical) that can occur along the food chain;
- to provide information about problems that are inherent to specific production, processing, conservation and distribution methotds to identify non-compliance and fraudulent practices;
- to raise awarness and develop knowledge about the EU laws and ensure their correct enforcement;
- to promote a harmonised approch to the operation of EU and national control systems by sharing best practices.
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- Staff of Competent Authorities involved in official control activities.
Selection Criteria
- It should be clear from their background and professional position that the participation in the training activity is a key element for the improvement of their skills and competence for their job.
- The trainees should have the required technical skills related to the fields mentioned under.
- The course will be held in English. In order to be able to understand and actively participate in the sessions, exercises and case studies, we invite you to give priority to only register the participants who can read and speak English.
- The participants will be requested to commit themselves to use the knowledge gained from the courses and also disseminate it via different dissemination methods i.e. informing colleagues about the information received at the training, distributing (photocopying or sending via electronic way) the training material among their colleagues, preparing informative articles in the professional national or, if possible, in international journals, preparing presentations based on the training material for the National Competent Authorities’ professional trainings or other dissemination methods which could be appropriate to share the information received via the BTSF trainings.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 23/09/2023 | 27/09/2023 | Budapest | Hungary |
2 | 30/10/2023 | 03/11/2023 | Valencia | Spain |
7 | 22/04/2024 | 26/04/2024 | Valencia | Spain |
8 | 03/06/2024 | 07/06/2024 | Valencia | Spain |
9 | 23/09/2024 | 27/09/2024 | Bologna | Italy |

The objective of the present programme is to spread knowledge and best practices in relation with general food labelling and claims as well as on specific categories of foods such as food supplements, foods with added vitamins and minerals and foods for specific groups of the population food composition and information, as per the requirements of the EU Food Law. The contract requests the provision of training courses addressing the latest developments, as well as in the implementation of controls.
The objective of this training course is to share good practices and harmonise the implementation among EU Member States of the official controls on food Labelling and to inform non-EU countries.
During the course, attendees will look at the food information regulations in detail and experience a number of training situations to explore the regulations. FIC is a horizontal legislation and covers all areas where food is supplied to the consumer. The food retail market is both enormous and vibrant. There are thousands of new food products presented to the EU market every year. The course cannot cover all food products completely. Attendees will therefore role play different situations and products to which the regulations apply. The aim is for participants to learn lessons and to help develop a consistent approach to enforcement with colleagues from other member states.
Objectives
The
Food Information and Legislation:
- In the course, the participants will experience active learning involvements which the team have developed from the experience of the tutors over the previous BTSF programme on FCI. The FCI is detailed in some areas and these details can help in explaining the requirements of the regulations in other areas. The tutors will develop scenarios using their experience in the field and help the participants address the issues and expand their knowledge. The participants can also develop this approach to learning as they will also be able to come with their own ideas and labelling issues and use the expertise of those on the course to develop a more consistent approach to address these local issues thrown up by the FCI.
Nutrition and Health Claims:
- The objective of the training is to improve the knowledge of participants in the field of nutrition and health claims and to exchange information and experiences between officials of the different Member States, in particular concerning the proper enforcement of the Regulation. The aim of the sessions is to explain the variety of claims defined in Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 and under which conditions these claims are allowed to be used. Furthermore, the different procedures for the authorization of health claims, the rules for trademarks and brand names which can be regarded as nutrition or health claims and the labelling requirements will be discussed
Food fortification and Food Supplement:
- The objective of this training course is to harmonise as much as possible the interpretations of relevant European FCI regulations on food supplements and fortified foods and to share good practices on their implementation among EU Member States, giving consideration to the specificities of these particular food products
Food for Specific Groups:
- The objective of the section on Foods for Specific Groups (FSG) is to ensure a common understanding, interpretation and enforcement of the rules covering these products.
- The rules applicable to these products are in a transition period. They are also interconnected with rules applicable to other categories of foods such as food supplements and ordinary foods. The change from the wider concept of foods for particular nutritional uses (PARNUTS) or dietetic foods with the abolition of the category as such is a very important change. The rationale of this change will be explained with reference to abuses that had been identified in the past, in particular those relating to abusive labelling practices that resulted in and may continue to create confusion about the legal identity or categorisation of products that could be FSGs, particularly Foods for Special Medical Purposes (FSMPs), food supplements or ordinary foods with claims.
Content
The course addresses the following topics:
- Food Information and Legislation
- Regulation on the Provision of Food Information to Consumers (1169/2011)
- Lectures with all the slides used
- Delegating and Implementing acts made under 1169/2011
- List of EU legislation with further labelling provisions
- Guidance produced by the Commission on food labelling provisions, including the infographic on food information and the tolerances for nutrition labelling.
- Commission’s Q&A on 1169/2011
- Nutrition and Health Claims
- Nutrition and health claims and how to apply official controls on this matter
- Objectives of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006
- Role of the European Commission and EFSA
- Examples of some exercises with solutions
- Food fortification and Food Supplement
- Consumer information legislation and practice on food supplements and fortified foods
- Definitions of food supplements and fortified foods and their market importance
- Relevant EU regulations
- Examples of some exercises with solutions
- Food for Specific Groups
- Legislation on Food for Specific Groups
- Labelling requirements for Total Diet Replacement Food and Food for Specific Medical Purpose
- Labelling requirements regarding for Baby Food products
Target audience
The selection criteria for participants are:
- Relevancy to daily work: participants should in priority be staff of Competent Authorities, with a position related to Official Controls;
- Sufficient level of language: in order to ensure the transfer of knowledge and opportunities to exchange views, participants should master the language of the training session for which they applied, if not specified otherwise the official language of the workshops will be English.
- Ability to share their experience: priority will be given to participants whose position will allow them to share with colleagues the outputs of the training sessions.
- Preferably officers working at food control authorities in a central administration level or local administration level and who are responsible for the development, coordination or implementation of the official monitoring and controls plans.
- IT requirements: the participants will need a laptop with up-to-date software, with camera and microphone (built in or external) and reliable WIFI connection.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | location | Organiser |
---|---|---|---|---|
13 | 19/04/2021 | 23/04/2021 | Online | AETS |
14 | 17/05/2021 | 21/05/2021 | Online | AINIA |
15 | 07/06/2021 | 11/06/2021 | Online | AETS |
16 | 05/07/2021 | 09/07/2021 | Online | AETS |
17 | 18/10/2021 | 22/10/2021 | Online | AETS |
18 | 13/12/2021 | 17/12/2021 | Online | AETS |
19 | 07/02/2022 | 11/02/2022 | Online | AINIA |
20 | 14/03/2022 | 18/03/2022 | Online | AETS |
21 | 25/04/2022 | 29/04/2022 | Online | AESA |
22 | 30/05/2022 | 03/06/2022 | Madrid, Spain | AENOR |
23 | 04/07/2022 | 08/07/2022 | Valencia, Spain | AINIA |
24 | 31/10/2022 | 04/11/2022 | Bratislava, Slovakia | AETS |

Organisation and implementation of training activities on the implementation of union rules in relation to microbiological criteria and on the monitoring and control of zoonoses agents under the Better Training For Safer Food initiative.
Objectives
The objective of the MCZ course, (contract n°2017 96 04 / 2017 / CHAFEA / BTSF 04) is to harmonise the approaches and to spread knowledge and best practice concerning:
- Module 1 -General Microbiological Criteria (Course 1: McA)
Target audience
The training targets participants from the competents authorities of EU member states (75%), Candidate Countries (15%), EFTA/EEA Countries (3%), ENP and Potential Candidates.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | Location | Module |
---|---|---|---|---|
09 | 21/06/2021 | 24/06/2021 | Online | McA |
10 | 19/07/2021 | 22/07/2021 | Online | McA |
11 | 11/10/2021 | 14/10/2021 | Online | McA |
12 | 07/12/2021 | 10/12/2021 | Online | McA |
13 | 14/02/2022 | 17/02/2022 | Online | McA |
14 | 28/03/2022 | 31/03/2022 | Online | McA |

Organisation and implementation of training activities on the implementation of union rules in relation to microbiological criteria and on the monitoring and control of zoonoses agents under the Better Training For Safer Food initiative.
Objectives
The objective of the MCZ course, (contract n°2017 96 04 / 2017 / CHAFEA / BTSF 04) is to harmonise the approaches and to spread knowledge and best practice concerning:
- Module 3 – Implementation of microbiological criteria (Course 3: Mc B) with the main focus on ready to eat food shelf-life assessment specific to Listeria M.
Target audience
The training targets participants from the competents authorities of EU member states (75%), Candidate Countries (15%), EFTA/EEA Countries (3%), ENP and Potential Candidates.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | Location | Module |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 21/06/2022 | 24/06/2022 | Trim, Ireland | McB |
2 | 19/09/2022 | 22/09/2022 | Trim, Ireland | McB |
3 | 07/11/2022 | 10/11/2022 | Sofia, Bulgaria | McB |
4 | 12/12/2022 | 15/12/2022 | Silema, Malta | McB |

Background information
Organisation and implementation of training activities on the implementation of union rules in relation to microbiological criteria and on the monitoring and control of zoonoses agents under the Better Training For Safer Food initiative.
Objectives
The objective of the MCZ course, (contract n°2017 96 04 / 2017 / CHAFEA / BTSF 04) is to harmonise the approaches and to spread knowledge and best practice concerning:
- Module 2 – Control of zoonoses, with a particular focus on the control of Salmonella in poultry and pigs and Campylobacter along the poultry meat production chain (Course 2: Zoonoses).
Target audience
The training targets participants from the competents authorities of EU member states (75%), Candidate Countries (15%), EFTA/EEA Countries (3%), ENP and Potential Candidates.
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | Location | Module |
---|---|---|---|---|
7 | 24/05/2021 | 27/05/2021 | Online | Zoonoses |
8 | 12/07/2021 | 15/07/2021 | Online | Zoonoses |
9 | 27/09/2021 | 30/10/2021 | Online | Zoonoses |
10 | 25/04/2022 | 28/04/2022 | Online | Zoonoses |
11 | 23/05/2022 | 26/05/2022 | Online | Zoonoses |
12 | 11/07/2022 | 14/07/2022 | Trim, Ireland | Zoonoses |
13 | 17/10/2022 | 20/10/2022 | Venice, Italy | Zoonoses |
14 | 21/11/2022 | 24/11/2022 | Silema, Malta | Zoonoses |

The overall objectives of the BTSF Training Programme/Course on
- To strengthen the capacity of African member countries to participate actively in the work of the Codex Alimentarius Commission and its subsidiary bodies.
Target audience
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below.
- National competent authority in Codex Alimentarius related subjects
- DG SANTE, HaDEA, Contractor, NCPs, officials, others
Calendar and locations
Session | Start Date | End Date | City | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 29/11/2021 | 03/12/2021 | Almaty | Kazakhstan (online) |
2 | 14/03/2022 | 18/03/2022 | Casablanca | Morocco (Online) |
3 | 27/06/2022 | 01/07/2022 | Bangkok | Thailand |
4 | 11/10/2022 | 14/10/2022 | Addis Ababa | Ethiopia |

Welcome to the BTSF Training Programme on ‘Supporting Effective Participation in CODEX Activities for CCEURO countries’.
The objective is to strengthen the capacity of the member countries of Europe and Central Asia (other than EU, EFTA and UK) to participate actively in the work of the Codex Alimentarius Commission and its subsidiary bodies.as well as the overall strategy of the BTSF initiative, the following objectives for this training course have been formulated:
- To spread knowledge and experience about the international trading system in agri-food products (WTO, SPS) and the role of international standard setting bodies, with particular focus on the work of Codex.
- To strengthen the capacity of countries in the region to participate actively in the development and implementation of standards by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) and its subsidiary bodies,
- To explain the organization, management and procedures of Codex bodies and support the establishment in participating countries of a strong, solid and sustainable national capacity to engage in Codex.
- To support the use and relevance of Codex standards, guidelines and codes of practice by countries in the region as an essential component of a science- and rule-based food safety system.
Objectives
This Training Programme has been designed for the profiles and positions described below. Please verify compliance with the selection criteria before submitting or validating applications.
- DG SANTE, HaDEA, Contractor, NCPs, officials, others.
- Invited countries: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Israel. Republic of North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Montenegro, Russian Federation, San Marino, Serbia, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.
Calendar and locations
SESSION | START DATE | END DATE | CITY | COUNTRY | LANGUAGE | REGISTRATION DEADLINE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 29/NOV/2021 | 3/Dic/2021 | N/A | N/A | EN | 29/OCT/2021 |

Food Contact Materials rules - eLearning Information
This eLearning course is aimed at allowing participants to improve their knowledge and skills in:
- EU legislation on Food Contact Materials with special focus on the changes adopted in the last few years.
- Setting up of national control plans for Food Contact Materials.
- Animal keeping and assessment of keeping facilities.
- Check-list used by the inspectors.
- Information on the different materials used in Food Contact Materials.
- How to inspect/check declaration of compliances and supporting documentation to the declaration of compliance.
Features
365 days access
- Average dedication: 8 hours
Online
- 5 Units
- Self-Paced
- Multimedia
Available in:
- English
- Other languages
How to Register
- If you are an government official, you can apply using the BTSF eLearning application.
- If you are a staff member working in EU Institutions contact HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu to request registration.
- For any other enquiries please send a message to HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu and the BTSF ACADEMY Team will be glad to assist you.

Food hygiene requirements for fishery products and live bivalve molluscs, and their official control - eLearning module
This eLearning course is aimed at allowing participants to improve their knowledge and skills in:
- The legislative requirements for fishery products and live bivalve molluscs throughout the production and distribution chain, including primary production.
- The requirements for vessels and on-land establishments.
- The tasks of the competent authorities.
- The tasks and responsibilities of food business operators in order to meet the legislative requirements for fishery products and live bivalve molluscs.
Features
365 days access
- Average dedication: 8 hours
Online
- 6 Units
- Self-Paced
- Multimedia
Available in:
- English
- German
- French
- Spanish
- Portuguese
- Other languages
How to Register
- If you are an government official, you can apply using the BTSF eLearning application.
- If you are a staff member working in EU Institutions contact HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu to request registration.
- For any other enquiries please send a message to HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu and the BTSF ACADEMY Team will be glad to assist you.

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) eLearning module
This eLearning course is aimed at allowing participants to improve their knowledge and skills in:
- EU legislation and relevant international standards.
- Background and principles of HACCP.
- HACCP methodology, development of HACCP plans and document management.
- Implementation and validation of HACCP plans.
- Information on the different materials used in Food Contact Materials.
- Audit principles and management, to verify implementation of HACCP systems and compliance with food and feed requirements.
Features
365 days access
- Average dedication: 8 hours
Online
- 5 Units
- Self-Paced
- Multimedia
Available in:
- English
- Other languages
How to Register
- If you are an government official, you can apply using the BTSF eLearning application.
- If you are a staff member working in EU Institutions contact HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu to request registration.
- For any other enquiries please send a message to HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu and the BTSF ACADEMY Team will be glad to assist you.

The eLearning module aims to improve the knowledge and skills of official control staff on specific investigations techniques used to identify agri-food fraud and to differentiate it from involuntary non-compliance.
The specific objectives of the training are:
- To improve basic knowledge of food fraud and food fraud qualifying criteria.
- To present good practices, tools and procedures relating to investigation techniques helping to detect fraud in the agri-food sector.
- To help disseminate best practices.
- To complement existing BTSF training courses on agri-food fraud investigation techniques.
Features
365 days access
- Average duration: 6 hours
Online
- 5 Units
- Self-Paced
- Multimedia
Available in:
- English
- Other languages
How to Register
- If you are an government official, you can apply using the BTSF eLearning application.
- If you are a staff member working in EU Institutions contact HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu to request registration.
- For any other enquiries please send a message to HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu and the BTSF ACADEMY Team will be glad to assist you.

The eLearning module aims to improve the knowledge and skills of official control staff on specific investigations techniques used to identify agri-food fraud and to differentiate it from involuntary non-compliance.
The specific objectives of the training are:
- To improve basic knowledge of agri-food fraud and agri-food fraud qualifying criteria.
- To present good practices, tools and procedures relating to investigation techniques helping to detect fraud in e-commerce linked with the agri-food sector.
- To help disseminate best practices on e-commerce surveillance.
- To complement existing BTSF training courses on e-commerce agri-food fraud investigation techniques.
Features
365 days access
- Average duration: 6 hours
Online
- 4 Units
- Self-Paced
- Multimedia
Available in:
- English
- Other languages
How to Register
- If you are an government official, you can apply using the BTSF eLearning application.
- If you are a staff member working in EU Institutions contact HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu to request registration.
- For any other enquiries please send a message to HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu and the BTSF ACADEMY Team will be glad to assist you.

The eLearning module aims to give a basic understanding of EU legislation on Food Improvement Agents (FIAs), in particular:
- How food additives, food flavourings and food enzymes are regulated in the EU.
- What are the requirements for their authorisation in the EU (Common Authorisation Procedure).
- What are the requirements for food business operators using FIAs in the EU.
- What should be verified by the competent authorities when confirming compliance with relevant legislation.
- To provide information about the current re-evaluation programme on food additives and flavourings.
Features
365 days access
- Average duration: 6 hours
Online
- 4 Units
- Self-Paced
- Multimedia
Available in:
- English
- Other languages
How to Register
- If you are an government official, you can apply using the BTSF eLearning application.
- If you are a staff member working in EU Institutions contact HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu to request registration.
- For any other enquiries please send a message to HADEA-BTSF-ACADEMY-SUPPORT@ec.europa.eu and the BTSF ACADEMY Team will be glad to assist you.
