Jun 15, 2026 - Foods
Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR): World Food Safety Day
June 7th has been designated by the United Nations as the “World Food Safety Day” to highlight the importance of safe food and each year features a new motto. This year's motto “From burden to solutions – safe food everywhere” draws attention to the importance of reliable data in the fight against foodborne diseases.
The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has developed a digital tool called “Contaminant Transfer Predictor” (ConTrans) that aids in predicting or simulating contamination scenarios. This software helps assess whether maximum levels of substances in food are exceeded and, consequently, whether health risks are to be expected.
A practical example is the levels of aflatoxins in cow's milk: Through feed, cows can ingest Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), which is then converted to Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in the liver. The latter is primarily excreted through bile and urine, but a portion can also enter the milk. Cows that produce a lot of milk thereby excrete more AFM1 proportionally. Thus, there is a higher transfer rate. Using ConTrans, BfR researchers were able to develop a model that can predict more accurately the relationship between milk yield and transfer rate. This enables determining how much AFB1 can be present in the feed to ensure compliance with the maximum Aflatoxin M1 levels in the milk.
Aflatoxins are toxins produced by molds that can occur in plant-based and also in animal-based foods such as milk. They have a high carcinogenic potential and are genotoxic, meaning they damage genetic material. Therefore, maximum levels are stipulated for them in foods. Companies are legally obliged to ensure through appropriate measures that these maximum levels are not exceeded in their products.
In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct tests for molds and mycotoxins. We provide you with fast and reliable results and are happy to advise you on any issues regarding product safety. If you have questions, our customer advisors are happy to assist you.
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