New EU regulation on PFAS in food
PFAS: emerging and persistent contaminants
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, PFAS, are a family of nearly 5,000 synthetic chemicals manufactured. These substances are widely used in industrial and domestic applications such as stain- and water-resistant coatings, oil-resistant coatings, fire-fighting foams, mining, and oil well surfactants. PFAS are extremely difficult to degrade and are considered highly persistent contaminants (or “forever chemicals”). They are also defined as emerging and dangerous contaminants for the environment and human health as they are suspected carcinogenic, immunotoxic, and endocrine disruptors.
Food industry: several sources of contamination
What are the major sources of contamination for the food industry?
- Water
- Environment (emissions, wastewater, waste)
- Soil pollution
- Packaging and food contact materials
All these sources of contamination threaten food safety and consumer health.
What is changing at the regulatory level?
Currently, there are no regulatory limits for PFAS in food. However, regulations are under discussion worldwide, including in Europe, USA, and China.
The European Union is working on several regulatory drafts to introduce monitoring guidelines and Maximum Limits (MRLs) in a wide range of food products including products of animal origin, products of plant origin, and baby food. The EURL Group’s activity about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances ended with the publication of the Guidance Documents on Analytical for the determination of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in food and feed. The publication of the legal documents by the European Union is expected to be imminent.
The impact on the agri-food chain
What will change for agri-food companies in view of PFAS regulatory updates in the European Union? Find out in this free webinar organised by Mérieux NutriSciences:
For several years, Mérieux NutriSciences has been involved in PFAS analysis in environmental matrices, water, waste, packaging, and food and is recognized for its expertise. Our laboratories are ready for market needs through the use of state-of-the-art technologies, capable of reaching the limits of quantification required by the upcoming regulations. Our PFAS analyses are accredited for environmental and food matrices.
Register to our free webinar!
Giampaolo Perinello, Analytical Chemistry Senior Scientist, will provide you with insights and actionable advice, during Chapter 1 of the Webinar Series on PFAS: “PFAS in food”.
- Date: Tuesday, 26 July
- Time: 1.00 – 2.00 PM (SGT)
- Language: English
- Speaker: Giampaolo Perinello, Analytical Chemistry Senior Scientist
