Analysis of ethylene oxide in Rotterdam

The number of recalls for products in which ethylene oxide residues and 2-chloroethanol are detected is increasing daily. After more residues were found in sesame and sesame products in 2020, ethylene oxide is currently increasingly being detected in locust bean gum, xanthan gum and thickeners.

Ethylene oxide is a gaseous disinfectant that is used to kill fungi and bacteria. According to a health assessment by the BfR , ethylene oxide is considered to be "mutagenic and carcinogenic". Therefore, its use in the EU is prohibited. In third countries, however, containers are often fumigated with ethylene oxide.

In the EU, food business operators are responsible for checking their products for residues as part of their own checks. The maximum residue levels in accordance with Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005 apply . Depending on the matrix, these are between 0.01 mg / kg and 0.1 mg / kg.

The bilacon GmbH laboratory has also established the analysis of ethylene oxide and 2-chloroethanol, the conversion product of ethylene oxide, at its location in Rotterdam. The limit of quantification is 0.01 mg / kg. Depending on customer requirements, processing times can range from:

Tobe offered.

Globalization poses challenges for food business operators - including fumigants that are not permitted in the EU. The bilacon team in Rotterdam will now support you with the detection of ethylene oxide and 2-chloroethanol in your products and will be at your side with advice.

Oscar Koch

Phone: +31 615146587 / +31 611438406

oscar.koch@tentamus.com

bilacon GmbH

Brielselaan 69

3081 AA Rotterdam

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