EFSA explains zoonotic diseases: Food-borne zoonotic diseases

Zoonoses are infections or diseases that can be transmitted directly or indirectly between animals and humans, for instance by consuming contaminated foodstuffs or through contact with infected animals.

The European Food Safety Authority’s independent scientific advice on the food safety and animal health-related aspects of zoonotic diseases, supported by data collected in Member States, helps European decision-makers in setting policies and making decisions to protect consumers from this public health threat.