On September 28, the European Flavour Association (EFFA) conducted its General Assembly 2023 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, transitioning from the hybrid format of previous years to an all in-person gathering. Company Members and National Associations convened to review the progress made over the year.
On September 28, the European Flavour Association (EFFA) conducted its General Assembly 2023 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, transitioning from the hybrid format of previous years to an all in-person gathering. Company Members and National Associations convened to review the progress made over the year.
The EFFA General Assembly (GA) marked a significant transition with the election of a new EFFA Board for the term of 2023-2025, as well as a new EFFA President and Vice President. Marc van der Duijs who represented IFF, who is the outgoing EFFA President, was heartily thanked for his invaluable contributions and support. Mr. Karel Stoschek, from DSM-Firmenich, stepping into the role of the new EFFA President, expressed gratitude and acknowledged the high standards set by his predecessor. In his remarks, Mr. Stoschek noted, "This is a highly dynamic industry. Today's presentations showcased the dedication and passion of our volunteers and I look forward to continuing to work in that direction.”
The GA spotlighted the EFFA Strategy Meeting 2023, underlining the crucial role that National Associations and Public Affairs play.
The different committees: Regulatory, Public Affairs, and Communication presented their work. In Regulatory & Scientific Affairs, the partnership with the EU institutions was highlighted.
In Public Affairs, the EFFA’s lines of action within the context of the EU Green Deal and Farm to Fork Strategy were explained, particularly regarding the Sustainable Food System Framework Initiative and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive.
The Communication presentation was the opportunity to see the first draft version of one of the videos for the upcoming campaign: ‘Which taste that brings you to your happy place?’ and to hear more about the FlavourDays that are happening in 2023.
This was also an opportunity to receive an update from the International Organization of the Flavor Industry (IOFI) on global flavour topics, and in particular, on initiatives related to sustainability, such as the IOFI – IFRA Sustainability Charter and the IOFI Carbon Emission Factors project.
After the statutory part, the EFFA GA was closed with a guest speaker on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Katie King, a published and awarded author, gave an overview of the legal, ethical, and environmental implications of AI, with a special focus on the food and flavours sector.
The next meeting of the General Assembly is scheduled for the 26th of September 2024 in Copenhagen, Denmark.