Rachida Semail

Partner, Keller & Heckman, Brussels

Rachida Semail counsels clients on the regulatory status of food packaging and food related matters in the European Union (EU) and around the globe. She helps clients navigate the complexities of establishing a suitable EU status for food packaging articles and materials. Clients seek Rachida’s extensive experience regarding food-contact substances not harmonized at the EU level, where mutual recognition is vital. She also assists clients with respect to materials intended for contact with drinking water which area stirs its own regulatory challenges. In addition, she advises clients in the active packaging industry on regulatory compliance related to enzymes, flavorings, and food additive clearances.

Rachida’s regulatory law knowledge extends beyond food-contact. She also counsels clients on clearance, compliance, and packaging issues relating to cosmetics, drugs, and medical devices, as well as product recalls and other related issues, including biocides in food contact materials. Rachida has also expertise on the textiles and machinery directives.

Prior to joining Keller and Heckman, Rachida practiced regulatory law at a French law firm specializing in EU and French food law, which allowed her to gain experience on enforcement of EU and French law. She assists clients on various food issues, such as labeling, claims, borderline products, novel foods. During her doctorate studies, she completed an internship with the legal service of the European Commission in Brussels, where she gained a first-hand perspective of policymaking and the legislative process, while completing her doctorate thesis.

Rachida is a contributing author to PackagingLaw.com, as well as related industry publications, and is frequently invited to speak at international food-contact conferences