In 2020, the estimated costs of foodborne infections in the Netherlands were 140 million euros lower than in the preceding year. This corresponds to a 30% decrease.

Each year, RIVM presents an update on the number of illnesses caused by 14 enteric pathogens (such as Salmonella, Campylobacter or Listeria) that can be transmitted by food into the human body.

The Netherlands aims to take the lead in the international ambition for a healthy, sustainable and safe dietary pattern.

There has been an ongoing outbreak of Salmonella enteritidis in Europe since 2015. It has also been present in the Netherlands since May 2016.

RIVM expressed concerns on the effects of bisphenol a (BPA) on the immune system in a report issued in March 2016.

More stringent European standards for safe exposure of workers and consumers to bisphenol A (BPA) were proposed in 2014 and 2015.

Almost one third (30%) of all deaths from foodborne diseases are in children under the age of five years, despite the fact that they make up only 9% of the global population.

Chemicals made from vegetable or animal waste may be an alternative to the use of the substance Bisphenol A (BPA) in thermal paper. Thermal paper is widely used for cash register receipts.

RIVM has created an overview of the possible risks of Bisphenol A (BPA) for humans and the environment. BPA is a component of many different products and affects the endocrine system.