The country's minister of health Mary Harney signed off the new members after consulting the island's food watchdog, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).

"The expert individuals comprising our scientific committee are leaders in their fields and we are proud to have their input to our policy decision. Their advice and knowledge is indispensable," commented Dr John O'Brien, chief executive at the FSAI.

As a micro, but similar, version of the experts at the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the scientists provide opinions on scientific and technical matters relating to food safety and hygiene.

The FSAI will then use this information to underpin decisions.

During its five year term, the scientific committee will touch on a number of key areas, to include: nutrition labelling, control strategies for harmful bacteria in the food chain, and approval of novel foods for marketing in Ireland.

Additive use in foods, the risks posed by chemical contaminants in the diet, and the controls to avoid risks associated with BSE infection in cattle, will also feature in their remit.

Professor Albert Flynn, from the department of food and technology at University College, Cork; also a member of one of EFSA's science committees, will chair the Irish committee.