Publication of amended maximum levels for mercury

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Jan 30, 2018 - Analytics

Publication of amended maximum levels for mercury

For mercury compounds, maximum residue levels (MRLs) are established in Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 on pesticide residues. Since 1978, the marketing and use of plant protection products containing mercury compounds have been prohibited. Subsequently, the authorization of these products was withdrawn and all MRLs were set to the relevant determination limit (0.01 mg/kg).

Current monitoring data continue to show the presence of mercury compounds in several products such as shell fruits (0.02 mg/kg) or fresh herbs (0.03 mg/kg).

As mercury-containing pesticides were gradually removed from the market, the presence of mercury in food is mainly attributable to environmental contamination.

In response, the responsible bodies of the EU Commission developed extended maximum level proposals in food. The aim was to include these maximum levels in Regulation (EC) No 396/2005. This initiative was finally approved and implemented in September 2017. The resulting Regulation (EU) 2018/73 of January 16, 2018, lists specific MRLs. For example, some MRLs are increased for shell fruits (0.02 mg/kg) or fresh herbs (0.03 mg/kg). New MRLs for honey and other bee products (0.001 mg/kg) were established.

The regulation enters into force on February 7, 2018, and is immediately applicable.

In our Tentamus laboratories, we routinely conduct mercury testing. We provide you with fast and reliable results.

For questions, our customer advisors are happy to assist you.

Source: German Food Law and Food Science Association; www.bll.de