The Informational-Analytical Center for Risk Assessment of Food Chain (hereafter referred to as “the Center”) was established within the Center for Ecological-Noosphere Studies by the decision of the RA Prime Minister, under number 835-N, on October 11, 2010. One of the primary reasons for establishing the Center was the lack of a sufficient scientific, methodological, and informational basis in Armenia to support the implementation of risk assessment practices. Thus, the Center focuses its efforts on developing such a basis, recognizing the importance of this aspect in safeguarding the food chain safety. The Center plays an important role in the field of food safety risk assessment, aiming to assess, identify and communicate public health risks, thereby contributing to the highest level of consumer protection.

The Center’s core research areas encompass a wide range of topics related to food safety, including:

• Identification of chemical hazards in food: environmental contaminants (heavy metals, pesticides) residues (veterinary drugs, antimicrobial substances, hormones) and mycotoxins.
• Assessment of acute and chronic exposure to chemical hazards in food, ranking the associated risks.
• Total Diet Studies (TDS) and diet surveys.
• Investigation of food adulteration.

It is noteworthy that within the framework of the team strengthening project 20TTCG-4A001 launched in 2020, a new group was formed, focusing on assessing food security and nutrient intake.
To support its endeavors, the Center's staff has developed several manuals based on international best practices. The Center maintains broad international cooperation with various esteemed international organizations, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), National Institute of Health in Italy, the University of Tuscia, the Agricultural University in Krakow. The joint publications cover various food safety topics.

The collaborative efforts and shared findings of the Center have improved risk assessment practices, benefiting both Armenia and the international scientific community. Through its comprehensive research, international collaborations, and continuous development of scientific resources, the Center strives to enhance food safety practices in Armenia.