Prof. Dr. Bensu Karahalil, a faculty member in the Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Division of Pharmaceutical Professional Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, has been selected as Türkiye’s sole representative for the 2026-2030 term to the Roster of Toxicological and Epidemiological Experts of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), which operates in cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Operating since 1956, JECFA is regarded as one of the most authoritative and independent international scientific advisory mechanisms conducting risk assessments for human health on food additives, contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants in food, and residues of veterinary drugs. The scientific evaluations carried out by JECFA form the basis for international food safety standards through FAO, WHO and the Codex Alimentarius Commission.

JECFA experts conduct risk assessments based on current toxicological and epidemiological data, produce critical scientific outputs such as acceptable daily intakes (ADI) and maximum residue limits (MRL), and these outputs are used globally to protect public health and ensure fair food trade. When invited to meetings, experts serve within the framework of scientific independence and conflict-of-interest principles.

Prof. Dr. Bensu Karahalil’s inclusion in this prestigious roster, with her scientific expertise in food additives and contaminants, is a great source of pride for both our country and the Gazi University Faculty of Pharmacy. This important international duty also carries special value as it confirms the academic competence and scientific visibility of the Faculty in toxicology at a global level.

We congratulate Prof. Dr. Bensu Karahalil and wish her success in her scientific work in relation to WHO and FAO.