News
Sep 30, 2025 - Cosmetics
Optimized Analytics of PAHs – More Precise Results for Even Greater Safety
What are PAHs and why are they relevant?
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) form an extensive class of substances with around 250 different compounds. Benzo(a)pyrene is often used as a reference substance. For a differentiated assessment, other representatives such as Benz(a)anthracene, Benzo(b)fluoranthene, and Chrysene are also considered.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) differentiates between "light" PAHs (e.g., naphthalene, fluoranthene, pyrene, chrysene) and "heavy" PAHs (e.g., benzofluoranthenes, benzo(a)pyrene). While many PAHs have low acute toxicity, especially some "heavy" compounds are considered carcinogenic or genotoxic.
PAHs predominantly arise during combustion processes. They enter foods, for example, through smoke, high temperatures, or environmental exposure. Smoked products can be particularly affected, as PAH-laden smoke deposits on surfaces. However, consumer goods like plastics or rubber parts can also contain PAHs, which can migrate into food or enter the body through the skin via migration or abrasion.
Our Optimization – Your Benefits
With the further development of our methodology, you will receive even more precise results:
- Lower detection limits: Individual PAH compounds are now reliably detected up to 10 µg/kg.
- Adjustment of reported analytes: The compounds 1-Methylnaphthalene and 2-Methylnaphthalene will no longer be reported separately in the future. Naphthalene remains part of the analyses.
- Clear evaluation thresholds: In unremarkable findings, the sum of all detected PAHs remains below 100 µg/kg.
- Accredited analytics: All investigations are carried out, as usual, for raw materials and finished products according to an accredited test procedure.
- Price stability: Prices remain unchanged – no additional costs incur for you.
When does the new methodology apply?
The optimization will be effective for all samples received from October 15, 2025.
Your Contacts
If you have questions, your usual customer advisors or
Dr. Bernhard Fellenberg (Business Development Manager, state-certified food chemist)
are happy to assist you:
📞 +49 (0)781/969 47-194
📧 bernhard.fellenberg@bav-institut.de