ALB adopts a uniform assessment basis for pyrrolizidine alkaloids in herbs
Jun 16, 2020 - Foods
ALB adopts a uniform assessment basis for pyrrolizidine alkaloids in herbs
After elevated levels of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA) were repeatedly found in culinary herbs in the past, the Working Group on Foodstuff and Consumer Product Safety (ALB) of the Federal States announced a decision to ensure uniform enforcement in Germany.
For this purpose, a maximum concentration of PA in culinary herbs has been calculated based on data on chronic toxicity and daily consumption, which is considered non-chronically toxic. According to the EU's basic regulation, culinary herbs are deemed unfit for human consumption if they exceed a PA level of 5 mg/kg. Culinary herbs are considered acutely toxic and therefore harmful to health if they exceed a value of 20 mg/kg.
In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct tests for pyrrolizidine alkaloids. We provide you with fast and reliable results.
Our customer advisors are readily available for any questions you may have.
Sources:
- www.lebensmittelverband.de
- ALB: Pyrrolizidine alkaloids in culinary herbs, especially oregano