CODA-CERVA, a federal science establishment, is the national reference laboratory for contagious animal diseases, mycotoxins and trace elements in human and animal food. CODA-CERVA contributes in the form of scientific research, expert opinions and service provision to a proactive policy in the area of safety vis-à-vis food production, animal health and public health at the level of federal and international health. It supports the preparation of policy for SPF Public Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment and the activities of the Food Agency (AFSCA). Through its tradition and expertise built up over many years, it occupies a central position between public health and agriculture. In this way, it makes a conscious effort to contribute an adapted response to new challenges for the authorities and the consumer. The essential activities of CODA-CERVA consist in scientific research to support the authorities, expertise and efficient service provision in the following areas: • Transmittable epidemic, endemic and emerging diseases in animals; • Zoonoses and emerging infectious diseases which pose a threat to public health; • Contaminants and the quality of the environment within the framework of food production safety; • Epidemiology: surveillance, risk analyses and molecular epidemiology. More than 85 researchers and 105 laboratory workers work at CODA-CERVA, along with around fifty people in support services.