Food industry field is a key sector for Europe. While the Commission has many prerogatives in agricultural issues, (the Common Agricultural Policy has the largest EU budget), there are also many initiatives in the food industry which affect all food products.

Rural development, food-stuffs' prices and GMOs are among the transversal issues handled by the Commission. In fact, it is closely involved in the management of the Common Organisation of Agricultural Markets (milk, wine, etc.).

In addition, the Commission is strengthening its approach in healthcare and consumer protection issues. Many initiatives involving consumer eating habits also have a direct impact on the stakeholders of this sector (product composition, labelling, nutritional claims, etc.).

Upstream monitoring of European initiatives is therefore essential to identify, taking position and conforming to new standards.