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Dec 29, 2025 - Foods

BfR updates maximum quantity recommendations for iodine in foods and supplements

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has comprehensively revised its recommendations on maximum levels for iodine in foods and dietary supplements and published them in Opinion No. 065/2025 on December 19, 2025 here. 

Background
The reason for the update is a continuing inadequate iodine supply for large parts of the population and changing dietary habits, in particular the growing reduction in the consumption of milk and dairy products, which are traditionally important sources of iodine. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which control metabolism, growth, and the development of the nervous system, among other things. 

New BfR maximum level proposals

• Dietary supplements:
  For teenagers aged 15 and older and adults, the BfR recommends a maximum iodine amount of 100 µg per daily consumption recommendation in the future.
  For pregnant and breastfeeding women, due to the higher demand, a maximum value of 150 µg iodine per day applies. 
• Food fortification:
  General additional iodine fortification of foods continues to be limited to table salt.
  Exception: Plant-based substitutes for milk and dairy products may be fortified with up to 14 µg iodine per 100 g or 100 ml in the future to improve iodine supply. 

Significance for consumers and manufacturers
 The new BfR recommendations serve as a scientific basis for risk managers and regulatory authorities to set safe and balanced limits. They consider, among other things, the increased needs of certain population groups and current nutrition trends. Federal Institute for Risk Assessment

At the BAV Institute and in the Tentamus laboratories, we support manufacturers with reliable analyses of iodine content, nutritional values, and labeling requirements – for safe, legally compliant, and transparent food products.

Sources:

• BfR Opinion No. 065/2025: Update (2025): Maximum Level Proposals for Iodine in Foods Including Dietary Supplements (BfR) Federal Institute for Risk Assessment
• PDF of the BfR opinion with details on iodine maximum levels: BfR PDF on Maximum Level Proposals Iodine (19.12.2025) Federal Institute for Risk Assessment