Overview
This report covers Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and Commission Answers published between Monday, 23.02.2026 and Sunday, 01.03.2026. During this period, 18 new PQs were published and 18 Commission Answers became available. Key themes this week included medicines regulation and shortages, public health and prevention, particularly concerning vaccine safety and consumer products, food safety and import controls, and the broader environment-health nexus including chemicals and climate resilience.
❗ EU measures to tackle medicine shortages
In a response published on 25.02.2026 (E-004765/25), Commissioner Várhelyi detailed the Commission’s approach to medicine shortages. This includes the proposed Critical Medicines Act to reduce EU dependencies and support domestic manufacturing, alongside regulatory measures in the pharmaceutical legislation reform for better monitoring and prevention of shortages. While an EU-wide stockpile is not considered cost-effective outside of crises, the proposal allows for imposing contingency stocks for critical medicines. The Commission also supports voluntary cooperation among Member States on pricing and reimbursement.
❗ Political agreement on EU pharmaceutical legislation
In a response published on 23.02.2026 (E-004896/25), Commissioner Várhelyi highlighted key elements of the political agreement on the EU pharmaceutical legislation. The reform introduces a supply obligation, allowing Member States to require companies to launch and supply medicines on their market to increase access. It also includes an enhanced ‘Bolar’ provision to enable day-one entry for off-patent medicines. The concept of ‘unmet medical needs’ has been further developed with objective criteria for assessment by the European Medicines Agency.
❗ Foreign acquisitions of European Notified Bodies
In a response published on 24.02.2026 to a question from Tom Berendsen (PPE) (E-004986/25), Commissioner Šefčovič addressed the risks of third-country acquisitions of EU Notified Bodies (NoBos). He stated that Regulation (EU) 2019/452 provides a framework for screening foreign direct investments (FDI), but the final decision to authorize an investment rests with national authorities. A provisional political agreement to revise the FDI screening regulation was reached in December 2025, which will strengthen the system by introducing a common minimum scope and mandatory screening. The Commission is also exploring a monitoring mechanism for startups in critical technology areas.
❗ HERA’s status and budget oversight
In a response published on 26.02.2026 (E-004637/25), Commissioner Lahbib clarified that the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) is a Commission service, not a decentralised agency. As such, it is fully integrated into the Commission’s administrative and financial framework. Its budget and financial transactions are systematically audited by the European Court of Auditors as part of the overall Commission audit, ensuring political accountability.
❓ Commission proceedings on Polish pharmacy ownership restrictions
MEPs Elżbieta Katarzyna Łukacijewska (PPE), Adam Jarubas (PPE), and Tomislav Sokol (PPE) submitted a question (E-000645/2026) published on 23.02.2026 concerning Polish legislation that restricts pharmacy ownership to individual pharmacists operating fewer than four pharmacies. The MEPs highlight that these rules affect business succession, have led to a decline in the number of pharmacies, and have been ruled unconstitutional by the Polish Constitutional Tribunal. They ask the Commission about the status and timeline of its assessment of complaint CPLT(2023)02625 on this matter. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ EU support for access to healthcare and diabetes care
In a response published on 23.02.2026 (E-004571/25), Commissioner Várhelyi affirmed that while Member States are responsible for their health systems, the Commission supports them in upholding the right to affordable, quality healthcare. Support is offered through the Recovery and Resilience Facility, the Technical Support Instrument, and Cohesion Policy. Under the ‘Healthier Together’ initiative, the EU4Health programme funds the JACARDI joint action to improve data collection and quality for diabetes prevention and care. The Commission intends to continue focusing on non-communicable diseases in the next multiannual financial framework.
❗ Accessibility for persons with disabilities
In a response published on 23.02.2026 (E-005021/25), Commissioner Lahbib outlined the Commission’s commitment to accessibility as detailed in the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030. The Commission has mandated the development of standards for the accessibility of the built environment, including public facilities like toilets. Additionally, the AccessibleEU resource centre was launched to support the implementation of accessibility legislation and foster collaboration, inviting relevant organisations to join its community of practice.
❓ Commission recommendations on the Polish healthcare system
MEP Kosma Złotowski (ECR) submitted a question (E-000719/2026) published on 26.02.2026, asking the Commission to clarify a statement by the Polish Health Minister that the Commission has indicated Poland has too many hospital beds. The MEP asks for the source of these recommendations, the legal basis for such opinions given that health policy is a national competence, and whether the recent closure of maternity wards in Poland is a consequence of these recommendations. A response from the Commission is pending.
Vaccine Safety & Confidence
❗ Commission reaffirms no link between vaccines and autism
In a response published on 23.02.2026 (E-004827/2025), Commissioner Várhelyi stated that based on scientific evidence, vaccines do not cause autism. The answer references information from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization, noting that large-scale studies have found no link. The Commission confirmed that vaccines undergo rigorous safety evaluations, continuous monitoring, and that no safety signals linking vaccines to autism have been detected. There is no change in the recommendations for childhood vaccination in the EU.
❗ No evidence of COVID-19 vaccines increasing cancer risk
In a response published on 26.02.2026 (P-000183/26), Commissioner Várhelyi addressed concerns about COVID-19 vaccines and cancer. He stated that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has found no evidence that COVID-19 vaccination increases the risk of cancer. The Commission was also informed by the EMA that there is no scientific evidence indicating that trace amounts of residual DNA in vaccines could integrate into the DNA of vaccinated individuals. Manufacturing processes are strictly controlled to ensure residual DNA remains below safety thresholds, with each batch independently verified.
Nutrition & Consumer Products
❗ Regulation of infant formula marketing
In a response published on 23.02.2026 (E-004866/25), Commissioner Várhelyi confirmed that EU food law restricts the advertising of infant formula to specialised publications and requires content to be scientific and factual, without suggesting bottle-feeding is superior to breastfeeding. Member States are responsible for enforcement and can impose further restrictions. The Commission is also working on revising compositional requirements for baby foods regarding sugar content and is following WHO work on the marketing of breast-milk substitutes, which may lead to future regulatory adjustments.
❓ Contamination of formula milk sold in the EU
MEP Yvan Verougstraete (Renew) submitted a question (E-000600/2026) published on 27.02.2026 regarding recent contamination of formula milk. The question raises concerns about the EU’s ability to ensure uniform protection of infant health and the effectiveness of alert and coordination mechanisms. The MEP asks what measures the Commission will take to ensure a harmonised European response to such health crises, how it will strengthen monitoring and alert systems, and whether it will establish clear EU regulatory thresholds for substances posing a risk to infants. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Risk communication and taxation of non-combustible nicotine products
MEP Sebastian Kruis (PfE) submitted a question (E-000685/2026) published on 27.02.2026, challenging the Commission’s public statements that non-combustible nicotine products do not significantly reduce health risks compared to combustible tobacco. The MEP asks for the scientific evidence behind this position, how the Commission ensures its communication is not misleading, and how it assesses the risk that its approach may discourage smokers from switching away from combustible tobacco. A response from the Commission is pending.
Access to Services & Lifestyle
❗ VAT rules provide flexibility for sport and fitness services
In a response published on 23.02.2026 to a question from several MEPs including Stine Bosse (Renew) and Christel Schaldemose (S&D) (E-004847/25), Commissioner Hoekstra acknowledged the role of physical activity in preventing non-communicable diseases. He stated that the 2022 reform of the VAT rates system allows Member States to apply a reduced VAT rate to the use of sporting facilities, including sports or physical exercise classes. The Commission believes these rules provide sufficient flexibility for Member States to support public health objectives and has not conducted a specific assessment of the economic impact of Member States’ choices in this area.
❓ Effective access to legal abortion services
MEP Nikos Pappas (The Left) submitted a question (E-000674/2026) published on 26.02.2026, highlighting practical barriers to abortion access in Greece due to widespread conscientious objection by medical staff and a lack of referral mechanisms. The MEP asks if the Commission considers this situation compatible with the obligation of equal access to health services, what obligations Member States have to ensure a functioning referral system, and if the Commission intends to assess geographical disparities in access to legal abortion services. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Data protection and opt-out rights in the European Health Data Space
In a response published on 27.02.2026 (E-004761/25), Commissioner Várhelyi explained that processing of personal health data under the GDPR can be based on Member State law for medical diagnosis or the management of health systems, such as in national electronic health record systems. The European Health Data Space (EHDS) Regulation will enable cross-border exchange of health data for treatment (primary use), with rules on restricting access and an option for Member States to provide for an opt-out. For the re-use of data for research (secondary use), the EHDS mandates strict safeguards, the use of pseudonymised or anonymised data, and a possibility for patients to opt out.
❓ Safety of intimate health data in menstrual tracking apps
MEP Marko Vešligaj (S&D) submitted a question (E-000599/2026) published on 27.02.2026, raising concerns about the processing and sharing of sensitive data by health-tracking apps, particularly those for menstrual cycles. The MEP asks if the Commission intends to issue specific guidelines for such applications regarding data processing lawfulness and transparency, and how it will ensure these guidelines comply with the European Health Data Space (EHDS) Regulation, including oversight and enforcement. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ EU actions to address food insecurity and affordability
In a response published on 26.02.2026 (E-004949/25), Executive Vice-President Mînzatu acknowledged that the increased cost of living has put pressure on household budgets and can contribute to food insecurity. The Commission has commissioned a study on food affordability, due by the end of 2026. The response highlights the European Child Guarantee, which recommends access to healthy meals for children in need, and the European Social Fund+, which allocates EUR 5.5 billion for food and material support. An EU Anti-Poverty Strategy is planned for the second quarter of 2026.
❗ Governance of EU Joint Undertakings for R&I
In a response published on 24.02.2026 to a question from Mathilde Androuët (PfE) (E-004976/25), Commissioner Zaharieva addressed concerns about the governance of Joint Undertakings (JUs). The Commission stated that JUs align R&I investments, avoid fragmentation, and have advanced EU leadership in strategic areas like semiconductors and clean hydrogen. Low budget implementation in some JUs in 2024 was attributed to specific delays. The Commission is monitoring the implementation of past European Court of Auditors observations and is working to streamline the partnership portfolio and reduce administrative burden.
❓ Upcoming European Research Area (ERA) Act
The Committee on Industry, Research and Energy submitted two oral questions published on 25.02.2026 regarding the upcoming European Research Area (ERA) Act. The question to the Commission (O-000008/2026) asks about the choice of legal act, how the Act will help achieve the 3% GDP R&D investment target, mechanisms to coordinate national strategies, and measures to improve research careers and knowledge circulation. A similar question was addressed to the Council (O-000007/2026). A response from the Commission is pending.
Food Safety & Imports
❗ EU import standards for antibiotics in food from third countries
In a response published on 23.02.2026 (E-004883/25), Commissioner Várhelyi confirmed that food imported from third countries must meet the same sanitary requirements as food produced in the EU. While the EU cannot impose its antibiotic prescription rules, exporters must ensure animal products comply with EU maximum residue levels. Exporting countries submit annual control plans, and the Commission conducts regular audits. From September 2026, stricter rules will apply to prevent the import of products from animals treated with antimicrobials for growth promotion or those reserved for human use in the EU.
❗ Import controls on food from Mercosur countries
In a response published on 23.02.2026 (E-004873/25), Commissioner Várhelyi reiterated that food from third countries, including Mercosur, must comply with EU sanitary requirements, which are non-negotiable. Exporters must adhere to EU maximum residue levels for antimicrobials. Regarding hormones, Brazil is required to have a segregated production system to ensure only products from untreated animals are exported to the EU. The Commission conducts regular audits of Brazil’s control systems, with nine audits carried out in Mercosur in the last two years and six more planned for 2026.
❗ Strengthening EU border controls for food safety
In a response published on 24.02.2026 to a question from Benoit Cassart (Renew) (E-004604/25), Commissioner Várhelyi stated that regular audits have generally not indicated insufficient staffing at Border Control Posts (BCPs). To strengthen import controls, the Commission has established a dedicated EU Task Force focusing on pesticide residues, food safety, and animal welfare. Planned actions include an increase in audits of non-EU countries and EU BCPs, enhanced monitoring of non-compliant products, and increased technical support and training for national authorities.
❓ Asbestos in imported children’s play sand
MEP Manuela Ripa (PPE) submitted a priority question (P-000754/2026) published on 26.02.2026 about recent reports of asbestos being detected in children’s play sand imported from China. The MEP asks what information the Commission has, what measures will be taken to remove affected products from the market, and whether current import and market surveillance mechanisms are considered sufficient. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Export of Brazilian table eggs to the EU
MEP Tobiasz Bocheński (ECR) submitted a priority question (P-000230/2026) published on 25.02.2026 regarding a communication from the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture about a Commission letter confirming the pre-listing system for Brazilian establishments producing poultry and eggs for the EU market. The MEP asks the Commission to confirm sending this letter, to provide details of its publication and legal basis, and to explain why it is not publicly available. A response from the Commission is pending.
Chemicals & Contaminants
❗ Delay in REACH Regulation revision
In a response published on 24.02.2026 to a question from Jutta Paulus (Verts/ALE) (E-000030/26), Executive Vice-President Séjourné confirmed that the revision of the REACH regulation is delayed. Following a negative opinion from the Regulatory Scrutiny Board in September 2025, the Commission is reviewing the impact assessment, which is a complex exercise balancing various policy objectives. In the meantime, implementation of the existing REACH regulation continues, including work on restricting PFAS. The Commission is also working on the ‘one substance, one assessment’ package to streamline chemical safety assessments.
❓ Aspartame safety update and EFSA evaluation
MEPs Jutta Paulus (Verts/ALE) and Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE) submitted a question (E-000675/2026) published on 26.02.2026, following up on a previous question about the safety of aspartame. They ask when the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) opinion on the salt of aspartame-acesulfame (E962) is due, whether this will constitute a full update to the 2013 aspartame evaluation, and for confirmation that recent studies on aspartame’s health effects will be included in the re-evaluation. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Harmonising EU ingredient labelling for allergic consumers
MEPs including Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE) and Marta Temido (S&D) submitted a question (E-000591/2026) published on 26.02.2026 about protecting allergic consumers. They ask if the Commission will assess the feasibility of making E-numbers mandatory on ingredient lists for clarity and consistency, and if it plans to examine whether disclosure of the raw material source of certain additives should be required where it may be relevant for allergic or hypersensitive consumers. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Business savings versus health costs in Food and Feed Safety Omnibus
MEP Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (Renew) submitted a priority question (P-000703/2026) published on 24.02.2026 concerning the proposed Food and Feed Safety Omnibus. The MEP asks if the projected business cost savings of EUR 335.6 million annually outweigh the expected rise in health costs, whether the Commission sees a tension between deregulating PFAS-pesticides and the high societal costs of PFAS pollution, and how it measures societal costs like loss of life against projected savings. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Public health impact of a sludge incineration plant in Italy
MEPs Gaetano Pedulla’ (The Left) and Carolina Morace (The Left) submitted a question (E-000698/2026) published on 27.02.2026 about a planned sludge incineration plant in Loreo, Italy, within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. They raise concerns about the potential emission of PFAS and products of incomplete combustion, questioning the project’s compatibility with the precautionary principle, waste hierarchy, and habitat protection directives. They ask what steps the Commission will take regarding binding limits for PFAS emissions from such plants. A response from the Commission is pending.
Broader Environmental Health
❗ Implementation of the Water Framework Directive
In a response published on 27.02.2026 (E-004755/25), Commissioner Roswall stated that effective implementation of EU water legislation, particularly the Water Framework Directive (WFD), is a priority for water resilience. The Commission has launched Structured Dialogues with Member States to identify implementation gaps. The response notes that from December 2027, it will no longer be possible for Member States to invoke time-related exemptions to achieve good water status, except for reasons of natural conditions. The Commission will follow up based on its assessment of the fourth River Basin Management Plans.
❓ Ambition of the future climate resilience law
MEP César Luena (S&D) submitted a question (E-000672/2026) published on 26.02.2026, referencing a report by the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change which states that EU adaptation efforts fall short. The MEP asks how the Commission will ensure the future climate resilience law incorporates clear obligations, integrates the Scientific Council’s recommendations for a science-based framework, and ensures nature-based solutions are central to adaptation policy. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Barriers to reusing treated wastewater for irrigation
MEP Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D) submitted a question (E-000582/2026) published on 26.02.2026 regarding the limited implementation of Regulation (EU) 2020/741 on the reuse of treated urban wastewater for irrigation, particularly in water-scarce countries like Greece. The MEP asks for the Commission’s assessment of the situation, whether it considers accelerating implementation a crucial tool for climate adaptation, and if it intends to issue additional guidelines or strengthen funding for reuse projects. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Fire at fuel facility in Perama, Greece, and industrial accident risk
MEP Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI) submitted a question (E-000642/2026) published on 23.02.2026 concerning a recent fire at a gas facility in a residential area of Perama, Greece. The MEP asks for the Commission’s view on the urgent calls from residents to remove oil tanks from the area and questions whether EU legislation like the Seveso Directive adequately protects public health and safety from industrial accidents and air pollution. A response from the Commission is pending.
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