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01.03.2023 - Foods

New maximum levels for the mycotoxin Ochratoxin A

In the Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs, maximum levels for the mycotoxin (mold toxin) Ochratoxin A (OTA) were already established. However, since OTA was also detected in other foodstuffs for which no maximum levels previously existed, new maximum levels for OTA in foodstuffs have been in effect since January 1, 2023.

The existing maximum levels have been reduced for the following food categories:

• dried grapes
• roasted coffee beans
• soluble coffee

New maximum levels have been introduced for the following food categories:

• composite cereal products
• non-alcoholic malt beverages
• dried fruits in general
• date syrup
• spices in general, dried herbs
• licorice products
• ginger roots, marshmallow roots, dandelion roots, and orange blossoms for herbal teas or coffee substitutes
• sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, melon seeds, hemp seeds, soybeans, pistachios
• cocoa powder

Foodstuffs that were lawfully placed on the market before January 1, 2023, may remain on the market until their best-before or use-by date.

In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct tests for Ochratoxin A and other mycotoxins. We provide you with fast and reliable results.

Our customer advisors are very happy to assist you with any questions.

Sources:
Regulation (EU) 2022/1370
Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006
www.bfr.bund.de 
www.ua-bw.de