News

09.05.2025 - Foods

EU plans to expand maximum levels for non-dioxin-like PCBs

The European Commission is planning to introduce new maximum levels for non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (ndl-PCBs) in additional animal-based foods, such as for horse, rabbit, wild poultry, deer, and wild boar.

Binding EU-wide maximum levels for ndl-PCBs in the meat and liver of cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and poultry are already in effect. These are regulated in the Contaminants Maximum Levels Regulation (EU) 2023/915.

As part of the current consultation, the EU Commission now proposes the following new additional maximum levels:

Meat (excluding edible offal) from

Horse, rabbit, wild poultry, and cervids: 40 ng/g fat
Wild boar (Sus scrofa): 80 ng/g fat
Liver and liver products from wild poultry: 5 ng/g fresh weight

For the mentioned products, maximum levels according to the national Contaminants Ordinance (KmV) are already in place, which are partially above the values now proposed by the EU.

Considering the planned EU limits, it seems reasonable to test products from the affected categories for ndl-PCB content. This is especially true if the proposed values are legally established.

In our Tentamus Laboratories, we regularly conduct tests for non-dioxin-like PCBs as well as for dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs. We provide you with fast and reliable results and are happy to advise you on all matters concerning product safety. Our customer advisors are at your disposal for any questions.

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