EU maximum levels for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food
New scientific findings show that humans are much more sensitive to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) than previously thought. PFASs can also be environmental contaminants in food due to their presence in the air, water and soil. Depending on the levels absorbed, they may pose health risks to consumers. Groups particularly vulnerable to PFAS include infants, young children and women of childbearing age as these substances can pass through the placenta and be transferred in breast milk. This fact is reflected in the sum TWI (tolerable weekly intake) of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which is based on the health impacts on these vulnerable groups.
The conclusions of the EFSA opinion published in 2020 were quickly evaluated by the European Commission and the EU Member States with a view to creating a uniform framework for assessing foods containing these substances. The introduction of EU-wide maximum levels for PFAS is an important step in protecting consumers, particularly more vulnerable consumer groups.
Since 1 January 2023, maximum levels for PFAS apply for certain foodstuffs. If these levels are exceeded, these foodstuffs may not be placed on the market. They may also not be used as raw materials or ingredients. Maximum levels were set for the first time for perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) and for the sum of these four PFAS for eggs, fish, fishery products, bivalve molluscs, crustaceans, meat, game and offal. On 25 May 2023, Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915 of 25 April 2023 on maximum levels for certain contaminants in food and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 entered into force and took over all previously published maximum levels for PFAS in foodstuffs.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2022/1428 of 24 August 2022 laying down methods of sampling and analysis for the control of perfluoroalkyl substances in certain foodstuffs sets out detailed requirements to ensure the reliability and uniformity of official controls. The Regulation entered into force on 15 September 2022.