Research at DTU National Food Institute is translated into scientific advice that benefits society, informing decisions on issues ranging from chemicals and diet to regulation.
Science Lunch is held quarterly by and for all employees at DTU National Food Institute. Photo: Vibeke Johannessen.
Tuesday 20 October 2026
Lene Hundborg Koss
Many researchers at DTU National Food Institute provide scientific advice to public authorities based on their research and assessments. Their advice covers a wide range of issues, including the use of chemicals, dietary recommendations, foodborne pathogens and other areas within the institute's expertise.
Many of the institute's researchers also serve on national and international expert groups and committees, where they play a key role in risk assessment in Denmark, the EU and internationally. This includes collaboration with organisations such as WHO, FAO, ECHA, OECD and EFSA.
At a recent Science Lunch (see box below), three researchers presented their work, focusing on how their research is translated into scientific advice for public authorities.
The event was titled: “For the benefit of society—how does your research or research group benefit society?”
The three presentations covered:
Assessing risks and benefits together
Postdoctoral researcher Anna E. Jacob explained how risk-benefit assessments can be used to weigh the health benefits of foods and diets against potential risks. Using nuts as an example, she showed how cardiovascular health benefits may outweigh potential cancer risks associated with harmful mycotoxins at increased consumption levels. The assessments presented are used to answer specific questions posed by authorities and provide evidence for decision support.
Analytical methods that support regulation
Postdoctoral researcher Alexander Montoya-Arroyo presented research on mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOSH and MOAH) in food. The research has contributed to scientific advice to the European Commission on analytical methods, helping to support the establishment of the first EU maximum levels MOAH, most of which are expected to apply from 2027. Read more about MOSH and MOAH.
Research informing international test guidelines
Senior researcher Marta Axelstad described how more than 25 years of research into a sensitive endpoint in developmental toxicity studies, called anogenital distance (AGD) – has contributed to an improved ability of OECD Test Guidelines to detect endocrine-disrupting effects.
About Science Lunch
Every three months, employees from DTU National Food Institute come together over lunch to hear presentations from their colleagues. Science Lunch offers everyone at the institute an opportunity to share knowledge, build networks, find inspiration and explore new opportunities for collaboration.
