Regulating carcinogenic risks from foodstuffs: present Danish approaches

The aim of the present Danish regulatory toxicological efforts is to identify and eliminate human carcinogens introduced in the human food supply directly or indirectly through the activity of man. The efforts are directed towards food additives, contaminants and food itself, both individual food items and dietary habits. The overall goal is to bring down the incidence of cancer. The scientific rationale for achieving this goal is discussed based upon recent knowledge. It is suggested that more scientific efforts should be directed towards determining the qualitative and quantitative role of the natural food constituents in human cancer causation.