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19.08.2022 - Foods
Amendment of Regulation (EU) No. 231/2012 on specifications for food additives as regards maximum levels of ethylene oxide
A change to Regulation (EU) No. 231/2012 was published in the Official Journal. This introduces maximum levels for ethylene oxide in certain food additives, such as locust bean gum.
Residues of ethylene oxide, which is used as a fumigant, in additives have repeatedly led to recalls in the past. The lack of legally binding maximum levels for these products made assessments often difficult.
The annex of the Regulation on food additive specifications is now supplemented by the following section:
“Ethylene oxide shall not be used for the sterilization of food additives. In the food additives listed in Annexes II and III of Regulation (EC) No. 1333/2008, including mixtures of food additives, no residues of more than 0.1 mg/kg of ethylene oxide (sum of ethylene oxide and 2-chloroethanol (expressed as ethylene oxide) shall be present, regardless of its source.”
The amendment enters into force on 01.09.2022 and applies directly in all EU member states.
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In the laboratories of the Tentamus Group, we regularly conduct testing for ethylene oxide. We provide you with fast and reliable results and are happy to advise you on all matters relating to product safety. If you have any questions, our customer advisors are at your disposal.
Source: Food Association Germany Communication No. L-597-2022