FOOD AND HEALTH ESSENTIALS

EU Commission proposes changes to maximum levels of certain fatty acids

The EU Commission has proposed implementing maximum levels of glycidyl fatty acid esters in a variety of foods.

Glycidyl fatty acid esters are a kind of food contaminant found in refined vegetable oils and fats. However, recent research by the Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has found that glycidol esters are genotoxic and carcinogenic.

Accordingly, the Commission has issued a draft Regulation modifying Regulation (EC) No 315/93 related to contaminants in food to incorporate margin of exposure (MoE) limits for the presence of glycidyl esters. In addition, due to specific heath concerns of infants, toddlers and young children, the draft Regulation specifies stricter maximum levels for vegetable oils and fats intended for use in the production of baby foods and processed cereal-based foods for infants and young children.

More details on the Commission’s draft Regulation on the maximum levels for glycidyl esters in certain foods is available here. Public comment period on the draft Regulation is open through September 19, 2017.