Glossary
This multilingual glossary provides easy-to-understand definitions for the main scientific terms used on this website in the risk assessment domain. Terms and their definitions are referenced in our communication products as pop-up notes to explain concepts to the public with no specialist knowledge.
Standard English spelling is used throughout. Acronyms are capitalised. Terms are presented in lower case. Entries are translated into all 24 EU official languages.
The glossary is a living document subject to regular updates. Relevant missing terms may be suggested by using the Ask A Question online form.
Disclaimer: Definitions in the glossary are intended solely to help this website's users understand scientific terminology. Definitions may differ from those given in European Union legislation and in the EFSA Journal.
G
Genetic engineering technology designed to speed up the transmission of specific genetic elements of interest in a target population.
A type of health claim which infers that a nutrient or food ingredient can influence the maintenance of normal human health or performance, or support weight control.
Genetic variation between and within species.
Process that alters the genetic material of an organism by modifying, removing or introducing new DNA to its genome.
An organism which contains genetic material that has been deliberately altered and which does not occur naturally through breeding or selection.
The entire amount of genetic material found in the cells of living organisms.
Processes that change the genetic material of animals, plants and microorganisms with precision in subtle or more extensive ways.
When a substance is capable of damaging the DNA in cells.
A method of visualising one or more genes in a living organism. It is often used as a means to understand a particular trait.
A recognised way of categorising closely related species of organisms. The genus is the first part of the Latin name of a species; for example, Homo Sapiens (human being) is part of the genus Homo.
Good laboratory practice (GLP) is a standardised way of planning, performing and reporting laboratory-based studies to ensure a high standard of quality and reliability.
protein found in wheat, barley and rye. The symptoms of coeliac disease are triggered by the ingestion of gluten.
A genetically modified organism (GMO) is an organism which contains genetic material that has been deliberately altered and which does not occur naturally through breeding or selection.
Other organism that is not genetically modified but which may interact with, or be affected by, the presence of a GM organism.
A good manufacturing practice (GMP) is any practice regarding the conditions and measures necessary to ensure the safety and suitability of food at all stages of the food chain.
A standardised way of operating which ensures that foodstuffs are produced safely and hygienically.
A standardised way of planning, performing and reporting laboratory-based studies to ensure a high standard of quality and reliability.
Any practice regarding the conditions and measures necessary to ensure the safety and suitability of food at all stages of the food chain.