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May 7, 2020 - Foods

High levels of 3-MCPD and glycidyl fatty acid esters in food - assessment of health risk

Numerous foods contain 3-Monochloropropanediol (3-MCPD), their fatty acid esters, and glycidyl fatty acid esters. These contaminants are formed during food processing, especially when fatty and salty foods are exposed to high temperatures.

High intake for adults is particularly associated with the consumption of frying fats and pastries such as croissants and donuts/Berliners. For children, donuts/Berliners, French fries, and margarine contribute significantly to total exposure. In infants, the consumption of fatty baby food can lead to the intake of these contaminants.

The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) published a statement on April 20, 2020, regarding the health risks.

For normal and high-consuming adults, there is no health risk expected concerning 3-MCPD and its fatty acid esters. An exposure estimation shows that there is no exceedance of the tolerable daily intake of 2 µg/kg body weight (tolerable daily intake, TDI). In contrast, children and infants often exceed the TDI. Therefore, an increased risk is possible with long-term intake.

With the long-term consumption of foods with high levels of glycidyl fatty acid esters, there is a health risk not only for children and infants but also for adults who consume large amounts.

The full text of the statement can be accessed at www.bfr.bund.de.

In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly carry out these chemical analyses. We deliver fast and reliable results.
Our customer advisors are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Source: www.bfr.bund.de, Statement No. 020/2020 of the BfR from April 20, 2020