Pyrrolizidine alkaloids - maximum levels from July 01, 2022

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids have been an important topic in plant foods and honey for years. So far, there have been no statutory maximum levels for pyrrolizidine alkaloids in food, but statements from the BfR and EFSA that highlighted the toxicological significance and exposure. The latest risk assessment by the BfR (opinion 026/2020 of June 17, 2020) recommends a maximum daily intake of 0.007 µg / kg body weight. So far, the body weight of the person and the amount consumed of the food always had to be taken into account for the assessment.

In addition, according to the resolution of the working group “Food, consumer goods, wine and cosmetics” (ALB), there has been a “health based guidance value” (HBGV) of 0.1 µg / kg body weight / day. When the HBGV was exceeded, foods were rated as “not safe” within the meaning of Article 14 (2) of Regulation (EC) No. 178/2002. However, the consumer's body weight and daily consumption of the food were also decisive for this assessment.

From July 1, 2022, Regulation (EU) 2020/2040 amending Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 will apply. This defines maximum levels for teas, herbal teas, dietary supplements, pollen products and herbs.
The exact scope of the pyrrolizidine alkaloids to be assessed is now also specified in the ordinance. The maximum levels refer to the total of 35 pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

QSI has been analyzing pyrrolizidine alkaloids in a large number of products since 2008. With immediate effect, QSI is also offering the new EU-35 scope in addition to the previous scope. So you can check a year before the new maximum levels come into force where the contamination of your products with the new scope is currently and ensure that all your products will continue to be marketable in the next year and comply with the new maximum levels.

Ask us for an individual offer.

If you have any questions or special requirements regarding the scope of the examination
we are happy to advise you.

Email: info (at) qsi-q3.de
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