Mattilsynets

Mattilsynet, the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, is a government agency in Norway responsible for ensuring food safety, animal health and welfare, and plant health within the food and feed chain. The agency supervises activities from farm to fork, including primary production, food processing, distribution, and sale to consumers. It enforces national legislation and EU/EEA regulations on food safety, veterinary controls, animal welfare, and plant protection, and it coordinates inspections by inspectors across sectors.

Mattilsynet conducts risk-based inspections of farms, dairies, meat plants, fish processing facilities, feed producers, restaurants, and retail outlets. It issues licenses and approvals for facilities and products, supports import and export controls, and monitors residues, contaminants, labeling, and traceability. The agency also oversees animal health programs, disease surveillance, and the welfare of farm animals during transport and slaughter, as well as plant health activities such as monitoring plant pests and ensuring seed quality.

Organizationally, Mattilsynet operates a central directorate with regional offices and field staff, including veterinarians, food safety inspectors, and laboratory professionals. It collaborates with other authorities, industry, and international partners, and aligns practices with Norway’s participation in EU/EEA regulations and global food safety standards.

Historically, Mattilsynet formed through the merger of earlier supervisory bodies to create a single nationwide authority responsible for the entire food chain. In keeping with its mandate, it works to prevent foodborne illness, support public health, and promote animal welfare and sustainable farming.