EFSA publishes opinion that clarifies scientific criteria for endocrine disruptors

Endocrine active substances are chemicals that can interact or interfere with normal hormonal activity; when this leads to adverse effects they are called endocrine disruptors. Following a request in 2012 from the European Commission, EFSA’s Scientific Committee has developed an opinion that clarifies the scientific criteria for identifying an endocrine disruptor. EFSA endorses the World Health Organization’s definition of an endocrine disruptor and highlights that not all endocrine active substances are endocrine disruptors. This depends on whether there is reasonable evidence that the substance can cause an adverse effect as a result of its interaction or interference with the endocrine system (Press Release EFSA, 20 March 2013).