Ethylene oxide residues in food: Health assessment

Go back

Aug 2, 2021 - Foods

Ethylene oxide residues in food: Health assessment

For some time now, there has been an increase in food recalls in Germany exceeding the maximum levels for ethylene oxide. For this reason, the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has re-evaluated the toxicity of ethylene oxide and 2-chloroethanol and derived a so-called “intake level of low concern” for ethylene oxide based on current research findings.

This intake level has been defined as 0.03 µg/kg BW/day (micrograms per kilogram of body weight per day). 

However, it should be noted that this quantity is generally only intended as an aid for risk reduction measures in terms of scope and urgency.

Under no circumstances should this approach be used as a basis for determining the marketability of food.

In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly carry out these tests. We provide you with quick and reliable results.
Our customer advisors are very happy to help with any questions.

Source: www.bfr.bund.de, Statement of July 20, 2021