New maximum levels for PAHs

In August 2011, the EU published new maximum levels for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In addition to those for benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), maximum levels for the sum of 4 PAHs (BaP, benz[a]anthracene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, chrysene) have been included. In 2008, the European Food Safety Authority had concluded that the practice of using BaP as the only marker for PAHs in food is not sufficient.

Regulation No. 835/2011 is already in statute but will not be enforced until September 2012. Maximum levels currently in place have in some cases been lowered, while new ones covering heat treated meat (products) and cocoa beans and derived products have been established.

Eurofins WEJ Contaminants has established a GC-MS method for the determination of BaP, the so called PAH4 as well as further PAHs on request.

Contact: SabrinaMent@eurofins.de