New EU Maximum Levels for Contaminants in Foods: Aflatoxins, Metals, and More

Credit: Guillaume Périgois via Unsplash

The European Commission has set new maximum levels (MLs) for certain contaminants in food.

The new MLs are effective as of April 25, 2023. MLs for each contaminant in certain foods are laid out in Annex I of European Commission Regulation 2023/915, which replaces Regulation 1881/2006.

The regulation covers contaminants like:

The full list of contaminants and their respective MLs in certain foods, as laid out in Annex I, is as follows:

1

Mycotoxins

1.1

Aflatoxins

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

B1

Sum of B1, B2, G1 and G2

M1

For the sum of aflatoxins, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values below the limit of quantification are zero.

1.1.1

Dried fruits to be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment before placing on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food except products listed in 1.1.3

5,0

10,0

-

1.1.2

Dried fruits used as only ingredient or processed products from dried fruits, placed on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food except products listed in 1.1.3

2,0

4,0

-

In the case of food consisting of dried fruits used as only ingredient or in the case of processed products consisting at least of 80 % from the dried fruits concerned, the maximum levels as established for the corresponding dried fruits apply also to those products. In other cases, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

1.1.3

Dried figs

6,0

10,0

-

In the case of food consisting of dried figs used as only ingredient or in the case of processed products consisting at least of 80 % from dried figs, the maximum levels as established for dried figs apply also to those products. In other cases, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

1.1.4

Groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds, to be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment before placing on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

8,0

15,0

-

Except groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds for crushing for refined vegetable oil production.

If groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds with inedible shell are analysed, it is assumed, when calculating the aflatoxin content, that all the contamination is on the edible part.

1.1.5

Groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds used as only ingredient or processed products from groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds, placed on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

2,0

4,0

-

Except crude vegetable oils destined for refining and refined vegetable oils.

If groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds with inedible shell are analysed, it is assumed when calculating the aflatoxin content that all the contamination is on the edible part.

In the case of food consisting of groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds used as only ingredient or in the case of processed products consisting at least of 80 % from the groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds concerned, the maximum levels as established for the corresponding groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds apply also to those products. In other cases, Articles 3(1) and (2) apply.

1.1.6

Tree nuts to be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment before placing on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food except products listed in 1.1.8 and 1.1.10

5,0

10,0

-

If tree nuts ‘in shell’ are analysed, it is assumed, when calculating the aflatoxin content, that all the contamination is on the edible part.

1.1.7

Tree nuts used as only ingredient or processed products from tree nuts, placed on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food except products listed in 1.1.9 and 1.1.11

2,0

4,0

-

If tree nuts ‘in shell’ are analysed, it is assumed, when calculating the aflatoxin content, that all the contamination is on the edible part.

In the case of food consisting of tree nuts used as only ingredient or in the case of processed products consisting at least of 80 % from the tree nuts concerned, the maximum levels as established for tree nuts apply also to those products. In other cases, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

1.1.8

Almonds, pistachios and apricot kernels to be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment before placing on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

12,0

15,0

-

If tree nuts ‘in shell’ are analysed, it is assumed, when calculating the aflatoxin content, that all the contamination is on the edible part.

1.1.9

Almonds, pistachios and apricot kernels, placed on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

8,0

10,0

-

If tree nuts ‘in shell’ are analysed, it is assumed, when calculating the aflatoxin content, that all the contamination is on the edible part.

In the case of food consisting of almonds, pistachios and apricot kernels used as only ingredient or in the case of processed products consisting at least of 80 % from the tree nuts concerned, the maximum levels as established for the corresponding tree nuts apply also to those products. In other cases, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

1.1.10

Hazelnuts and Brazil nuts, to be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment before placing on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

8,0

15,0

-

If hazelnuts ‘in shell’ are analysed, it is assumed, when calculating the aflatoxin content, that all the contamination is on the edible part.

1.1.11

Hazelnuts and Brazil nuts, placed on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

5,0

10,0

-

If hazelnuts ‘in shell’ are analysed, it is assumed, when calculating the aflatoxin content, that all the contamination is on the edible part.

In the case of food consisting of hazelnuts and Brazil nuts used as only ingredient or in the case of processed products consisting at least of 80 % from the tree nuts concerned, the maximum levels as established for the corresponding tree nuts apply also to those products. In other cases, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

1.1.12

Cereals and products derived from cereals except products listed in 1.1.13, 1.1.18 and 1.1.19

2,0

4,0

-

Including processed cereal products.

Products derived from cereals relate to products containing at least 80 % cereal products.

1.1.13

Maize and rice to be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment before placing on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

5,0

10,0

-

1.1.14

Following dried spices:

Capsicum spp. (dried fruits thereof, whole or ground, including chillies, chilli powder, cayenne or paprika)

Pepper (fruits of Piper spp, including white and black pepper)

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Mixtures of dried spices containing one or more of the abovementioned dried spices

5,0

10,0

-

1.1.15

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) (dried)

5,0

10,0

-

1.1.16

Raw milk (2), heat-treated milk and milk for the manufacture of milk-based products

-

-

0,050

1.1.17

Infant formulae, follow-on formulae (3) and young-child formulae (4)

-

-

0,025

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).

1.1.18

Baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

0,10

-

-

The maximum level applies to the dry matter (5) of the product as placed on the market.

1.1.19

Food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3)

0,10

-

0,025

The maximum level applies in the case of milk, milk products and similar products to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer) and in the case of products other than milk, milk products and similar products to the dry matter (5).

1.2

Ochratoxin A

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

1.2.1

Dried fruits

1.2.1.1

Dried vine fruits (currants, raisins and sultanas) and dried figs

8,0

1.2.1.2

Other dried fruits

2,0

1.2.2

Date syrup

15

1.2.3

Pistachios to be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment before placing on the market for final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

10,0

If tree nuts ‘in shell’ are analysed, it is assumed, when calculating the ochratoxin A content, that all the contamination is on the edible part.

1.2.4

Pistachios placed on the market for final consumer or use as ingredient in foods

5,0

If tree nuts ‘in shell’ are analysed, it is assumed, when calculating the ochratoxin A content, that all the contamination is on the edible part.

1.2.5

Dried herbs

10,0

1.2.6

Ginger roots (dried) for use in herbal infusions

15

1.2.7

Marshmallow roots (dried), dandelion roots (dried) and orange blossoms (dried) for use in herbal infusions or in coffee substitutes

20

1.2.8

Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, (water) melon seeds, hempseeds, soybeans

5,0

1.2.9

Unprocessed cereal grains

5,0

The maximum level applies to unprocessed cereal grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

1.2.10

Products derived from unprocessed cereal grains and cereals placed on the market for the final consumer except products listed in 1.2.11, 1.2.12, 1.2.13, 1.2.23 and 1.2.24

3,0

Including processed cereal products.

Products derived from unprocessed cereal grains relate to products containing at least 80 % cereal products.

1.2.11

Bakery wares, cereal snacks and breakfast cereals

1.2.11.1

products not containing oilseeds, nuts or dried fruits

2,0

1.2.11.2

products containing at least 20 % dried vine fruits and/or dried figs

4,0

1.2.11.3

other products containing oilseeds, nuts and/or dried fruits

3,0

1.2.12

Non-alcoholic malt beverages

3,0

1.2.13

Wheat gluten not placed on the market for the final consumer

8,0

1.2.14

Roasted coffee beans and ground roasted coffee except products listed in 1.2.15

3,0

1.2.15

Soluble coffee (instant coffee)

5,0

1.2.16

Cocoa powder

3,0

1.2.17

Dried spices except products listed in 1.2.18

15

The maximum level applies also to mixtures of dried spices.

1.2.18

Capsicum spp. (dried fruits thereof, whole or ground, including chillies, chilli powder, cayenne or paprika)

20

1.2.19

Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza inflata and other species)

1.2.19.1

Liquorice root (dried), including as an ingredient in herbal infusions

20

1.2.19.2

Liquorice extract for use in food in particular beverages and confectionary

80

The maximum level applies to the pure and undiluted extract, whereby 1 kg of extract is obtained from 3 to 4 kg liquorice root.

1.2.19.3

Liquorice confectionery containing ≥ 97 % liquorice extract on dry basis

50

1.2.19.4

Other liquorice confectionery

10,0

1.2.20

Wine (7) and fruit wine

2,0

Including semi-sparkling and sparkling wines, excluding liqueur wine and wine with an alcoholic strength of not less than 15 % vol.

The maximum level applies to products produced from the 2005 harvest onwards.

1.2.21

Aromatised wine, aromatised wine-based drinks and aromatised wine-product cocktails (8)

2,0

The maximum level applies to products produced from the 2005 harvest onwards.

The maximum level applicable to these beverages is function of the proportion of wine and/or grape must present in the finished product.

1.2.22

Grape juice, grape juice from concentrate, concentrated grape juice, grape nectar, grape must and concentrated grape must, placed on the market for the final consumer (9)

2,0

For concentrated grape juice or concentrated grape must, the maximum level applies to juice or must as reconstituted.

The maximum level applies to products produced from the 2005 harvest onwards.

1.2.23

Baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

0,50

The maximum level applies to the dry matter (5) of the product as placed on the market.

1.2.24

Food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3)

0,50

The maximum level applies in the case of milk, milk products and similar products to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or reconstituted as instructed by the manufacturer) and in the case of products other than milk, milk products and similar products to the dry matter (5).

1.3

Patulin

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

1.3.1

Fruit juices, fruit juices from concentrate, concentrated fruit juices and fruit nectars (9)

50

For concentrated fruit juice, the maximum level applies to juice as reconstituted.

1.3.2

Spirit drinks (10), cider and other fermented drinks derived from apples or containing apple juice

50

1.3.3

Solid apple products placed on the market for the final consumer except products listed in 1.3.4 and 1.3.5

25

Including apple compote and apple puree.

1.3.4

Apple juice and solid apple products for infants and young children (3) and labelled and placed on the market as such

10,0

Including apple compote and apple puree.

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).

1.3.5

Baby food (3)

10,0

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).

1.4

Deoxynivalenol

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

1.4.1

Unprocessed cereal grains except products listed in 1.4.2 and 1.4.3

1 250

Except unprocessed maize grains intended to be processed by wet milling and except rice.

The maximum level applies to unprocessed cereal grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

1.4.2

Unprocessed durum wheat grains and oat grains

1 750

The maximum level applies to unprocessed cereal grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

1.4.3

Unprocessed maize grains

1 750

Except unprocessed maize grains for which it is evident e.g. through labelling or destination, that they are intended for use in a wet milling process only (starch production).

The maximum level applies to unprocessed maize grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

1.4.4

Cereals placed on the market for the final consumer, cereal flour, semolina, bran and germ as final product placed on the market for the final consumer except products listed in 1.4.7 and 1.4.8

750

Except rice and rice products.

1.4.5

Pasta

750

Pasta means pasta (dry) with a water content of approximately 12 %.

1.4.6

Bread, pastries, biscuits, cereal snacks and breakfast cereals

500

Except rice products.

Including small bakery wares.

1.4.7

Milling products of maize not placed on the market for the final consumer

1.4.7.1

Maize flour not placed on the market for the final consumer

1 250

At least 90 %, measured by weight, of the particles in the milling product have a size ≤ 500 μm.

1.4.7.2

Other milling products of maize not placed on the market for the final consumer

750

Less than 90 %, measured by weight, of the particles in the milling product have a size ≤ 500 μm.

1.4.8

Baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

200

Except rice products.

The maximum level applies to the dry matter (5) of the product as placed on the market.

1.5

Zearalenone

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

1.5.1

Unprocessed cereal grains except products listed in 1.5.2

100

Except unprocessed maize grains intended to be processed by wet milling and except rice.

The maximum level applies to unprocessed cereal grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

1.5.2

Unprocessed maize grains

350

Except unprocessed maize grains for which it is evident e.g. through labelling, destination, that it is intended for use in a wet milling process only (starch production).

The maximum level applies to unprocessed maize grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

1.5.3

Cereals placed on the market for the final consumer, cereal flour, semolina, bran and germ as final product placed on the market for the final consumer except products listed in 1.5.5, 1.5.6 and 1.5.8

75

Except rice and rice products.

1.5.4

Bread, pastries, biscuits, cereal snacks and breakfast cereals except products listed in 1.5.5

50

Except rice products.

Includes small bakery wares.

1.5.5

Maize placed on the market for the final consumer

Maize-based snacks and maize-based breakfast cereals

100

1.5.6

Milling products of maize not placed on the market for the final consumer

1.5.6.1

Maize flour not placed on the market for the final consumer

300

At least 90 %, measured by weight, of the particles in the milling product have a size ≤ 500 μm.

1.5.6.2

Other milling products of maize not placed on the market for the final consumer

200

Less than 90 %, measured by weight, of the particles in the milling product have a size ≤ 500 μm.

1.5.7

Refined maize oil

400

1.5.8

Baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

20

Except rice products.

The maximum level applies to the dry matter (5) of the product as placed on the market.

1.6

Fumonisins

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

Sum of B1 and B2

For the fumonisins, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values below the limit of quantification are zero.

1.6.1

Unprocessed maize grains

4 000

Except unprocessed maize grains for which it is evident e.g. through labelling, destination, that it is intended for use in a wet milling process only (starch production).

The maximum level applies to unprocessed maize grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

1.6.2

Maize placed on the market for the final consumer, milling products of maize placed on the market for the final consumer, maize-based food placed on the market for the final consumer except products listed in 1.6.3 and 1.6.5

1 000

1.6.3

Maize-based breakfast cereals and maize-based snacks

800

1.6.4

Milling products of maize not placed on the market for the final consumer

1.6.4.1

Maize flour not placed on the market for the final consumer

2 000

At least 90 %, measured by weight, of the particles in the milling product have a size ≤ 500 μm.

1.6.4.2

Other milling products of maize not placed on the market for the final consumer

1 400

Less than 90 %, measured by weight, of the particles in the milling product have a size ≤ 500 μm.

1.6.5

Baby food containing maize and processed maize-based food for infants and young children (3)

200

The maximum level applies to the dry matter (5) of the product as placed on the market.

1.7

Citrinin

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

1.7.1

Food supplements based on rice fermented with red yeast Monascus purpureus

100

1.8

Ergot sclerotia and ergot alkaloids

1.8.1

Ergot sclerotia

Maximum level (g/kg)

Remarks

The maximum level applies to unprocessed cereal grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

In case scouring (6) is applied in the presence of ergot sclerotia, the cereals need to firstly undergo a cleaning step before scouring.

The sampling shall be performed in accordance with point B of Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 401/2006.

1.8.1.1

Unprocessed cereal grains except products listed in 1.8.1.2

0,2

Except maize and rice.

1.8.1.2

Unprocessed rye grains

0,5

0,2 as from 1 July 2024

1.8.2

Ergot alkaloids

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

Lower bound sum of

ergocornine/ergocorninine; ergocristine/ergocristinine; ergocryptine/ergocryptinine (α- and β-form); ergometrine/ergometrinine; ergosine/ergosinine; ergotamine/ergotaminine

For the ergot alkaloids, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values below the limit of quantification are zero.

1.8.2.1

Milling products of barley, wheat, spelt and oats (with an ash content lower than 900mg/100g dry matter)

100

50 as from 1 July 2024

1.8.2.2

Milling products of barley, wheat, spelt and oats (with an ash content equal or higher than 900mg/100g dry matter)

Barley, wheat, spelt and oats grains placed on the market for the final consumer

150

1.8.2.3

Rye milling products

Rye placed on the market for the final consumer

500

250 as from 1 July 2024

1.8.2.4

Wheat gluten

400

1.8.2.5

Processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

20

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

2

Plant toxins

2.1

Erucic acid, including erucic acid bound in fat

Maximum level (g/kg)

Remarks

2.1.1

Vegetable oils and fats placed on the market for the final consumer or for use as an ingredient in food except products listed in 2.1.2

20,0

2.1.2

Camelina oil, mustard oil and borage oil

50,0

With acceptance from the competent authority, the maximum level does not apply to mustard oil locally produced and consumed.

2.1.3

Mustard (condiment)

35,0

2.2

Tropane alkaloids

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

Atropine

Scopolamine

2.2.1

Baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3), containing millet, sorghum, buckwheat, maize or their derived products

1,0

1,0

Derived products relate to products containing at least 80 % these cereal products.

The sampling for the control of compliance with the maximum level shall be performed in accordance with the provisions provided for in point J of Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 401/2006.

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

Sum of atropine and scopolamine

For the sum of atropine and scopolamine, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values below the limit of quantification are zero.

2.2.2

Unprocessed millet grains and sorghum grains

5,0

The maximum level applies to unprocessed cereal grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

2.2.3

Unprocessed maize grains

15

Except unprocessed maize grains for which it is evident e.g. through labelling, destination, that it is intended for use in a wet milling process only (starch production) and except unprocessed maize grains for popping.

The maximum level applies to unprocessed maize grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

2.2.4

Unprocessed buckwheat grains

10

The maximum level applies to unprocessed buckwheat grains placed on the market before first-stage processing (6).

2.2.5

Maize for popping

Millet, sorghum and maize placed on the market for the final consumer

Milling products of millet, sorghum and maize

5,0

2.2.6

Buckwheat placed on the market for the final consumer

Milling products of buckwheat

10

2.2.7

Herbal infusions (dried product) and ingredients used for herbal infusions (dried products) except products listed in 2.2.8

25

‘Herbal infusions (dried product)’ refers to:

—

herbal infusions (dried product) from flowers, leaves, stalks, roots, and any other parts of the plant (in sachets or in bulk) used for the preparation of herbal infusion (liquid product); and

—

instant herbal infusions. In the case of powdered extracts, a concentration factor of 4 has to be applied.

2.2.8

Herbal infusions (dried product) and ingredients used for herbal infusions (dried products) of exclusively anise seeds

50

‘Herbal infusions (dried product)’ refers to:

—

herbal infusions (dried product) from flowers, leaves, stalks, roots, and any other parts of the plant (in sachets or in bulk) used for the preparation of herbal infusion (liquid product); and

—

instant herbal infusions. In the case of powdered extracts, a concentration factor of 4 has to be applied.

2.2.9

Herbal infusions (liquid product)

0,20

2.3

Hydrocyanic acid, including hydrocyanic acid bound in cyanogenic glycosides

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

2.3.1

Unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped linseed not placed on the market for the final consumer

250

The maximum levels do not apply to oilseeds for crushing and oil refining, provided that the remaining pressed oilseeds are not placed on the market as food. In case the remaining pressed oilseeds are placed on the market as food, the maximum levels apply taking into account Article 3(1) and (2).

2.3.2

Unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped linseed placed on the market for the final consumer

150

The maximum level does not apply to unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped linseed placed on the market for the final consumer in small quantities where the warning ‘Only to be used for cooking and baking. Do not consume raw!’ appears in the principal field of vision of the label (using the specific font size (11)). The unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped linseed with the warning message has to comply with the maximum level provided for in 2.3.1.

2.3.3

Unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped almonds placed on the market for the final consumer

35

The maximum level does not apply to unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped bitter almonds placed on the market for the final consumer in small quantities where the warning ‘Only to be used for cooking and baking. Do not consume raw!’ appears in the principal field of vision of the label (using the specific font size (11)).

2.3.4

Unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped apricot kernels placed on the market for the final consumer

20,0

The operator who places unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped apricot kernels on the market for the final consumer shall provide upon request from the competent authority evidence of compliance of the marketed product with the maximum level.

2.3.5

Cassava root (fresh, peeled)

50,0

2.3.6

Cassava flour and tapioca flour

10,0

2.4

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

The maximum level refers to the lower bound sum of the following 21 pyrrolizidine alkaloids:

—

intermedine/lycopsamine, intermedine-N-oxide/lycopsamine-N-oxide, senecionine/senecivernine, senecionine-N-oxide/senecivernine-N-oxide, seneciphylline, seneciphylline-N-oxide, retrorsine, retrorsine-N-oxide, echimidine, echimidine-N-oxide, lasiocarpine, lasiocarpine-N-oxide, senkirkine, europine, europine-N-oxide, heliotrine and heliotrine-N-oxide

and the following additional 14 pyrrolizidine alkaloids known to co-elute with one or more of the above identified 21 pyrrolizidine alkaloids, making use of certain currently used analytical methods:

—

indicine, echinatine, rinderine (possible co-elution with lycopsamine/intermedine), indicine-N-oxide, echinatine-N-oxide, rinderine-N-oxide (possible co-elution with lycopsamine-N-oxide/intermedine-N-oxide), integerrimine (possible co-elution with senecivernine/senecionine), integerrimine-N-oxide (possible co-elution with senecivernine-N-oxide/senecionine-N-oxide), heliosupine (possible co-elution with echimidine), heliosupine-N-oxide (possible co-elution with echimidine-N-oxide), spartioidine (possible co-elution with seneciphylline), spartioidine-N-oxide (possible co-elution with seneciphylline-N-oxide), usaramine (possible co-elution with retrorsine), usaramine N-oxide (possible co-elution with retrorsine N-oxide).

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be individually and separately identified with the used method of analysis, shall be quantified and included in the sum.

For the pyrrolizidine alkaloids, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values below the limit of quantification are zero.

2.4.1

Borage leaves (fresh, frozen) placed on the market for the final consumer

750

Without prejudice to more restrictive national rules in certain Member States on the placing of the market of pyrrolizidine alkaloid containing plants.

2.4.2

Dried herbs except products listed in 2.4.3

400

Without prejudice to more restrictive national rules in certain Member States on the placing of the market of pyrrolizidine alkaloid containing plants.

2.4.3

Borage, lovage, marjoram and oregano (dried product) and mixtures exclusively composed of these dried herbs

1 000

Without prejudice to more restrictive national rules in certain Member States on the placing of the market of pyrrolizidine alkaloid containing plants.

2.4.4

Tea (Camellia sinensis) and flavoured tea (12) (Camellia sinensis) (dried product) except tea and flavoured tea referred to in 2.4.5

150

For teas with dried fruits and dried herbs, Article 3 applies.

‘Tea (Camellia sinensis) (dried product)’ refers to:

—

tea (Camellia sinensis) (dried product) from dried leaves, stalks and flowers (in sachets or in bulk) used for the preparation of tea (liquid product); and

—

instant teas. In the case of powdered tea extracts, a concentration factor of 4 has to be applied.

2.4.5

Tea (Camellia sinensis), flavoured tea (12) (Camellia sinensis) and herbal infusions (dried product) and ingredients used for herbal infusions (dried products) for infants and young children

75

For teas with dried fruits and dried herbs, Article 3 applies.

2.4.6

Tea (Camellia sinensis), flavoured tea (12) (Camellia sinensis) and herbal infusions (liquid product) for infants and young children

1,0

For teas with dried fruits and dried herbs, Article 3 applies.

2.4.7

Herbal infusions (dried product) and ingredients used for herbal infusions (dried products) except products listed in 2.4.5 and 2.4.8

200

‘Herbal infusions (dried product)’ refers to:

—

herbal infusions (dried product) from flowers, leaves, stalks, roots, and any other parts of the plant (in sachets or in bulk) used for the preparation of herbal infusion (liquid product); and

—

instant herbal infusions. In the case of powdered extracts, a concentration factor of 4 has to be applied.

Without prejudice to more restrictive national rules in certain Member States on the placing of the market of pyrrolizidine alkaloid containing plants.

2.4.8

Herbal infusions (dried product) and ingredients used for herbal infusions (dried products) of rooibos, anise (Pimpinella anisum), lemon balm, chamomile, thyme, peppermint, lemon verbena and mixtures exclusively composed of these dried herbs except herbal infusions referred to in 2.4.5

400

‘Herbal infusions (dried product)’ refers to:

—

herbal infusions (dried product) from flowers, leaves, stalks, roots, and any other parts of the plant (in sachets or in bulk) used for the preparation of herbal infusion (liquid product); and

—

to instant herbal infusions. In the case of powdered extracts, a concentration factor of 4 has to be applied.

2.4.9

Cumin

400

2.4.10

Food supplements containing botanical preparation (13) including extracts except products listed in 2.4.11

400

The maximum level applies to the food supplements as placed on the market.

Without prejudice to more restrictive national rules in certain Member States on the placing of the market of pyrrolizidine alkaloid containing plants.

2.4.11

Pollen based food supplements

Pollen and pollen products

500

The maximum level applies to the food supplements as placed on the market.

2.5

Opium alkaloids

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

For the opium alkaloids, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values below the limit of quantification are zero.

The maximum level refers to the sum of morphine and codeine, for which a factor of 0,2 is applied to the level of codeine. Therefore, the maximum level refers to the sum of morphine + 0,2 × codeine.

2.5.1

Whole, ground or milled poppy seeds placed on the market for the final consumer

20

2.5.2

Bakery products containing poppy seeds or processed products thereof

1,50

Bakery products include also flour-based ready-to-eat savouries and snacks.

Processed products thereof relate to products containing at least 80 % poppy seed products.

The food business operator supplying the poppy seeds to the food business operator manufacturing the bakery products shall provide the necessary information to enable the manufacturer of the bakery products to place products on the market that comply with the maximum level. This information shall include analytical data, where appropriate.

2.6

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) equivalents

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

For delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) equivalents, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values below the limit of quantification are zero.

The maximum level refers to the sum of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (Δ9-THCA), expressed as Δ9-THC.

A factor of 0,877 is applied to the level of Δ9-THCA and the maximum level refers to the sum of Δ9-THC + 0,877 × Δ9-THCA (in case of a separate determination and quantification of Δ9-THC and Δ9-THCA).

2.6.1

Hemp seeds

3,0

2.6.2

Ground hemp seeds, (partially) defatted hemp seed and other hemp seed processed products except products listed in 2.6.3

3,0

Hemp seed processed products are products processed exclusively from hemp seeds.

2.6.3

Hemp seed oil

7,5

3

Metals and other elements

3.1

Lead

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

3.1.1

Fruits

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.1.1.1

Cranberries, currants, elderberries and strawberry tree fruits

0,20

3.1.1.2

Fruits other than cranberries, currants, elderberries and strawberry tree fruits

0,10

3.1.2

Root and tuber vegetables

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.1.2.1

Root and tuber vegetables except products listed in 3.1.2.2 and 3.1.2.3

0,10

For potatoes, the maximum level applies to peeled potatoes.

3.1.2.2

Fresh ginger, fresh turmeric

0,80

3.1.2.3

Salsify

0,30

3.1.3

Bulb vegetables

0,10

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.1.4

Fruiting vegetables

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.1.4.1

Fruiting vegetables except products listed in 3.1.4.2

0,050

3.1.4.2

Sweetcorn

0,10

3.1.5

Brassica vegetables

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.1.5.1

Brassica vegetables other than those listed in 3.1.5.2

0,10

3.1.5.2

Leafy brassica

0,30

3.1.6

Leaf vegetables excluding fresh herbs and edible flowers

0,30

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.1.7

Legume vegetables

0,10

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.1.8

Stem vegetables

0,10

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.1.9

Fungi

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.1.9.1

The following cultivated fungi:

Common mushroom (Agaricus bisporus)

Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes)

0,30

3.1.9.2

Wild fungi

0,80

3.1.10

Pulses

0,20

3.1.11

Cereals

0,20

3.1.12

Dried spices

3.1.12.1

Seed spices

0,90

3.1.12.2

Fruit spices

0,60

3.1.12.3

Bark spices

2,0

3.1.12.4

Root and rhizome spices

1,50

3.1.12.5

Bud spices

1,0

3.1.12.6

Flower pistil spices

1,0

3.1.13

Meat of bovine animals, sheep, pig and poultry (2) except products listed in 3.1.14

0,10

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

3.1.14

Offal (2)

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

3.1.14.1

of bovine animals and sheep

0,20

3.1.14.2

of pig

0,15

3.1.14.3

of poultry

0,10

3.1.15

Fishery products (2) and bivalve molluscs (2)

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

3.1.15.1

Muscle meat of fish

0,30

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.1.15.2

Cephalopods

0,30

The maximum level applies to the animal without viscera.

3.1.15.3

Crustaceans

0,50

The maximum level applies to muscle meat from appendages and abdomen, which means, that the cephalothorax of crustaceans is excluded. In case of crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura), the maximum level applies to the muscle meat from appendages.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.1.15.4

Bivalve molluscs

1,50

In case of Pecten maximus, the maximum level applies to the adductor muscle and gonad only.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.1.16

Raw milk (2), heat-treated milk and milk for the manufacture of milk-based products

0,020

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

3.1.17

Honey

0,10

3.1.18

Fats and oils

0,10

Including milk fat.

3.1.19

Fruit juices, fruit juices from concentrate, concentrated fruit juices and fruit nectars (9)

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

For concentrated fruit juice, the maximum level applies to the reconstituted juice.

3.1.19.1

exclusively from berries and other small fruits

0,05

3.1.19.2

other than exclusively from berries and other small fruits, including mixtures

0,03

3.1.20

Wine (7), cider, perry and fruit wine

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

Including semi-sparkling and sparkling wines, excluding liqueur wine and wine with an alcoholic strength of not less than 15 % vol.

3.1.20.1

products produced from the 2001 fruit harvest to the 2015 fruit harvest

0,20

3.1.20.2

products produced from the 2016 fruit harvest to the 2021 fruit harvest

0,15

3.1.20.3

products produced from the 2022 fruit harvest onwards

0,10

3.1.21

Aromatised wine, aromatised wine-based drinks and aromatised wine-product cocktails (8)

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

3.1.21.1

products produced from the 2001 fruit harvest to the 2015 fruit harvest

0,20

3.1.21.2

products produced from the 2016 fruit harvest to the 2021 fruit harvest

0,15

3.1.21.3

products produced from the 2022 fruit harvest onwards

0,10

3.1.22

Liqueur wine made from grapes (7)

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

3.1.22.1

products produced from the 2022 fruit harvest onwards

0,15

3.1.23

Salts

3.1.23.1

Salts except products listed in 3.1.23.2

1,0

3.1.23.2

The following unrefined salts: ‘fleur de sel’ and ‘grey salt’ which are manually harvested from salt marshes with a clay bottom

2,0

3.1.24

Infant formulae, follow-on formulae (3) and young-child formulae (4)

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.1.24.1

placed on the market as powder

0,020

3.1.24.2

placed on the market as liquid

0,010

3.1.25

Drinks for infants and young children placed on the market and labelled as such except products listed in 3.1.24 and 3.1.27

3.1.25.1

placed on the market as liquid or to be reconstituted following instructions of the manufacturer

0,020

Including fruit juices.

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use.

3.1.25.2

to be prepared by infusion or decoction

0,50

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.1.26

Baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3) except products listed in 3.1.25

0,020

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.1.27

Food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3)

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.1.27.1

placed on the market as powder

0,020

3.1.27.2

placed on the market as liquid

0,010

3.1.28

Food supplements

3,0

3.2

Cadmium

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

3.2.1

Fruits and tree nuts

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.2.1.1

Fruits except products listed in 3.2.1.2, 3.2.1.3 and 3.2.1.4

0,050

3.2.1.2

Citrus fruits, pome fruits, stone fruits, table olives, kiwi fruits, bananas, mangoes, papayas and pineapples

0,020

3.2.1.3

Berries and small fruits, except products listed in 3.2.1.4

0,030

3.2.1.4

Raspberries

0,040

3.2.1.5

Tree nuts

The maximum levels do not apply to tree nuts for crushing and oil refining, provided that the remaining pressed tree nuts are not placed on the market as food. In case the remaining pressed tree nuts are placed on the market as food, the maximum levels apply, taking into account Article 3(1) and (2).

3.2.1.5.1

Tree nuts except products listed in 3.2.1.5.2

0,20

3.2.1.5.2

Pine nuts

0,30

3.2.2

Root and tuber vegetables

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.2.2.1

Root and tuber vegetables except products listed in 3.2.2.2, 3.2.2.3, 3.2.2.4, 3.2.2.5 and 3.2.2.6

0,10

For potatoes, the maximum level applies to peeled potatoes.

3.2.2.2

Beetroots

0,060

3.2.2.3

Celeriac

0,15

3.2.2.4

Horseradish, parsnips, salsify

0,20

3.2.2.5

Radishes

0,020

3.2.2.6

Tropical roots and tubers, parsley roots, turnips

0,050

3.2.3

Bulb vegetables

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.2.3.1

Bulb vegetables except products listed in 3.2.3.2

0,030

3.2.3.2

Garlic

0,050

3.2.4

Fruiting vegetables

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.2.4.1

Fruiting vegetables except products listed in 3.2.4.2

0,020

3.2.4.2

Aubergines

0,030

3.2.5

Brassica vegetables

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.2.5.1

Brassica except products listed in 3.2.5.2

0,040

3.2.5.2

Leafy brassica

0,10

3.2.6

Leaf vegetables and herbs

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.2.6.1

Leaf vegetables except products listed in 3.2.6.2

0,10

3.2.6.2

Spinaches and similar leaves, mustard seedlings and fresh herbs

0,20

3.2.7

Legume vegetables

0,020

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.2.8

Stem vegetables

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.2.8.1

Stem vegetables except products listed in 3.2.8.2 and 3.2.8.3

0,030

3.2.8.2

Celeries

0,10

3.2.8.3

Leeks

0,040

3.2.9

Fungi

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

The maximum level applies after washing and separating the edible part.

3.2.9.1

Cultivated fungi except products listed in 3.2.9.2

0,050

3.2.9.2

Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes)

0,15

3.2.9.3

Wild fungi

0,50

3.2.10

Pulses and proteins from pulses

3.2.10.1

Pulses except products listed in 3.2.10.2

0,040

3.2.10.2

Proteins from pulses

0,10

3.2.11

Oilseeds

The maximum levels do not apply to oilseeds for crushing and oil refining, provided that the remaining pressed oilseeds are not placed on the market as food. In case the remaining pressed oilseeds are placed on the market as food, the maximum levels apply, taking into account Article 3(1) and (2).

3.2.11.1

Oilseeds except products listed in 3.2.11.2, 3.2.11.3, 3.2.11.4, 3.2.11.5 and 3.2.11.6

0,10

3.2.11.2

Rape seeds

0,15

3.2.11.3

Peanuts and soy beans

0,20

3.2.11.4

Mustard seeds

0,30

3.2.11.5

Linseeds and sunflower seeds

0,50

3.2.11.6

Poppy seeds

1,20

3.2.12

Cereals

The maximum levels do not apply to cereals used for the production of beer or distillates, provided that the remaining cereal residue is not placed on the market as food. In case the remaining cereal residue is placed on the market as food, the maximum levels apply, taking into account Article 3(1) and (2).

3.2.12.1

Cereals except products listed in 3.2.12.2, 3.2.12.3, 3.2.12.4 and 3.2.12.5

0,10

3.2.12.2

Barley and rye

0,050

3.2.12.3

Rice, quinoa, wheat bran and wheat gluten

0,15

3.2.12.4

Durum wheat (Triticum durum)

0,18

3.2.12.5

Wheat germ

0,20

3.2.13

Products of animal origin (2)

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

3.2.13.1

Meat of bovine animals, sheep, pig and poultry

0,050

Except offal.

3.2.13.2

Horsemeat

0,20

Except offal.

3.2.13.3

Liver of bovine animals, sheep, pig, poultry and horse

0,50

3.2.13.4

Kidney of bovine animals, sheep, pig, poultry and horse

1,0

3.2.14

Fishery products (2) and bivalve molluscs (2)

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

3.2.14.1

Muscle meat of fish except species listed in 3.2.14.2, 3.2.14.3 and 3.2.14.4

0,050

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.2.14.2

Muscle meat of the following fish:

Mackerel (Scomber species)

Tuna (Thunnus species, Katsuwonus pelamis, Euthynnus species)

Bichique (Sicyopterus lagocephalus)

0,10

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.2.14.3

Muscle meat of bullet tuna (Auxis species)

0,15

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.2.14.4

Muscle meat of the following fish:

Anchovy (Engraulis species)

Swordfish (Xiphias gladius)

Sardine (Sardina pilchardus)

0,25

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.2.14.5

Crustaceans

0,50

The maximum level applies to muscle meat from appendages and abdomen, which means that the cephalothorax of crustaceans is excluded. In case of crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura) the maximum level applies to the muscle meat from appendages.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.2.14.6

Bivalve molluscs

1,0

In case of Pecten maximus, the maximum level applies to the adductor muscle and gonad only.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Articles 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.2.14.7

Cephalopods

1,0

The maximum level applies to the animal without viscera.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Articles 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.2.15

Cocoa and chocolate products (14)

3.2.15.1

Milk chocolate with < 30 % total dry cocoa solids

0,10

3.2.15.2

Chocolate with < 50 % total dry cocoa solids; milk chocolate with ≥ 30 % total dry cocoa solids

0,30

3.2.15.3

Chocolate with ≥ 50 % total dry cocoa solids

0,80

3.2.15.4

Cocoa powder placed on the market for the final consumer or as an ingredient in sweetened cocoa powder or powdered chocolate placed on the market for the final consumer (drinking chocolate)

0,60

3.2.16

Salt

0,50

3.2.17

Infant formulae, follow-on formulae, food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3) and young-child formulae (4)

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.2.17.1

placed on the market as powder and manufactured from cows' milk proteins or cow’s milk protein hydrolysates

0,010

3.2.17.2

placed on the market as liquid and manufactured from cows' milk proteins or cow’s milk protein hydrolysates

0,005

3.2.17.3

placed on the market as powder and manufactured from soy protein isolates, alone or in a mixture with cows' milk proteins

0,020

3.2.17.4

placed on the market as liquid and manufactured from soy protein isolates, alone or in a mixture with cows' milk proteins

0,010

3.2.18

Young-child formulae (4)

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.2.18.1

placed on the market as powder and manufactured from plant protein isolates other than soy protein isolates, alone or in a mixture with cow’s milk proteins

0,020

3.2.18.2

placed on the market as liquid and manufactured from plant protein isolates other than soya protein isolates, alone or in a mixture with cow’s milk proteins

0,010

3.2.19

Drinks for infants and young children labelled and placed on the market as such except products listed in 3.2.17 and 3.2.18

3.2.19.1

placed on the market as liquid or to be reconstituted following instructions of the manufacturer

0,020

Including fruit juices.

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use.

3.2.20

Baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

0,040

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.2.21

Food supplements

3.2.21.1

Food supplements except products listed in 3.2.21.2

1,0

3.2.21.2

Food supplements consisting at least of 80 % from dried seaweed, from products derived from seaweed or from dried bivalve molluscs (2)

3,0

3.3

Mercury

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

3.3.1

Fishery products (2) and bivalve molluscs (2)

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

3.3.1.1

Crustaceans, molluscs and muscle meat of fish except species listed in 3.3.1.2 and 3.3.1.3

0,50

For crustaceans, the maximum level applies to muscle meat from appendages and abdomen, which means, that the cephalothorax of crustaceans is excluded. In case of crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura) the maximum level applies to the muscle meat from appendages.

In case of Pecten maximus, the maximum level applies to the adductor muscle and gonad only.

3.3.1.2

Muscle meat of following fish:

Axillary seabream (Pagellus acarne)

Black scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo)

Blackspot seabream (Pagellus bogaraveo)

Bonito (Sarda sarda)

Common pandora (Pagellus erythrinus)

Escolar (Lepidocybium flavobrunneum)

Halibut (Hippoglossus species)

Kingklip (Genypterus capensis)

Marlin (Makaira species)

Megrim (Lepidorhombus species)

Oilfish (Ruvettus pretiosus)

Orange roughy (Hoplostethus atlanticus)

Pink cusk-eel (Genypterus blacodes)

Pike (Esox species)

Plain bonito (Orcynopsis unicolor)

Poor cod (Trisopterus species)

Red mullet (Mullus barbatus barbatus)

Roundnose grenadier (Coryphaenoides rupestris)

Sail fish (Istiophorus species)

Silver scabbardfish (Lepidopus caudatus)

Snake mackerel (Gempylus serpens)

Sturgeon (Acipenser species)

Surmullet (Mullus surmuletus)

Tuna (Thunnus species, Euthynnus species, Katsuwonus pelamis)

Shark (all species)

Swordfish (Xiphias gladius)

1,0

3.3.1.3

Cephalopods

Marine gastropods

Muscle meat of the following fish:

Anchovy (Engraulis species)

Alaska pollock (Theragra chalcogramma)

Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua)

Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus)

Basa (Pangasius bocourti)

Carp (species belonging to the Cyprinidae family)

Common dab (Limanda limanda)

Mackerel (Scomber species)

European flounder (Platichthys flesus)

European plaice (Pleuronectes platessa)

European sprat (Sprattus sprattus)

Mekong giant catfish (Pangasianodon gigas)

Pollock (Pollachius pollachius)

Saithe (Pollachius virens)

Salmon & Trout (Salmo species and Oncorhynchus species, except Salmo trutta)

Sardine or Pilchard (Dussumieria species, Sardina species, Sardinella species and Sardinops species)

Sole (Solea Solea)

Striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypopthalmus)

Whiting (Merlangius merlangus)

0,30

For cephalopods, the maximum level applies to the animal without viscera.

3.3.2

Food supplements

0,10

3.3.3

Salt

0,10

3.4

Arsenic

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

Inorganic arsenic (sum of As(III) and As(V))

The maximum level for inorganic arsenic applies to products listed in 3.4.1 to 3.4.4.

3.4.1

Cereals and cereal based products

Rice, husked rice, milled rice and parboiled rice as defined in Codex Standard 198-1995.

3.4.1.1

Non-parboiled milled rice (polished or white rice)

0,15

3.4.1.2

Parboiled rice and husked rice

0,25

3.4.1.3

Rice flour

0,25

3.4.1.4

Rice waffles, rice wafers, rice crackers, rice cakes, rice flakes and popped breakfast rice

0,30

3.4.1.5

Rice destined for the production of food for infants and young children (3)

0,10

3.4.1.6

Non-alcoholic rice-based drinks

0,030

3.4.2

Infant formulae, follow-on formulae and food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3) and young child formulae (4)

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.4.2.1

placed on the market as powder

0,020

3.4.2.2

placed on the market as liquid

0,010

3.4.3

Baby food (3)

0,020

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.4.4

Fruit juices, concentrated fruit juices as reconstituted and fruit nectars (9)

0,020

Total arsenic

The maximum level for total arsenic applies to products listed in 3.4.5.

3.4.5

Salt

0,50

3.5

Tin (inorganic)

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

3.5.1

Canned food except products listed in 3.5.2, 3.5.3, 3.5.4 and 3.5.5

200

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

3.5.2

Canned beverages except products listed in 3.5.3, 3.5.4 and 3.5.5

100

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

Including fruit juices and vegetable juices.

3.5.3

Canned infant formulae, canned follow-on formulae (3) and canned young-child formulae (4)

50

Except canned dried and canned powdered products.

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.5.4

Canned baby food and canned processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

50

Except canned dried and canned powdered products.

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

3.5.5

Canned food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3)

50

Except canned dried and canned powdered products.

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

4

Halogenated persistent organic pollutants

4.1

Dioxins and PCBs

Maximum level

Remarks

Sum of dioxins (pg WHO-PCDD/F-TEQ/g) (15)

Sum of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs (pg WHO-PCDD/F-PCB-TEQ/g) (15)

Sum of non dioxin-like PCBs (ng/g) (15)

Sum of non dioxin-like PCBs is of PCB28, PCB52, PCB101, PCB138, PCB153 and PCB180 (ICES - 6).

Maximum levels refer to upper bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the different congeners below the limit of quantification are equal to the limit of quantification.

4.1.1

Meat and meat products except edible offal and products listed in 4.1.3 and 4.1.4 (2)

Maximum levels expressed on fat are not applicable for food containing < 2 % fat. For food containing less than 2 % fat, the maximum level applicable is the level on product basis corresponding to the level on product basis for the food containing 2 % fat, calculated from the maximum level established on fat basis, making use of following formula: Maximum level expressed on product basis for food containing less than 2 % fat = maximum level expressed on fat for that food × 0,02.

4.1.1.1

of bovine, ovine and caprine animals

2,5 pg/g fat

4,0 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

4.1.1.2

of pigs

1,0 pg/g fat

1,25 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

4.1.1.3

of poultry

1,75 pg/g fat

3,0 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

4.1.1.4

of horse

5,0 pg/g fat

10,0 pg/g fat

-

4.1.1.5

of rabbit

1,0 pg/g fat

1,5 pg/g fat

-

4.1.1.6

of wild boar (Sus scrofa)

5,0 pg/g fat

10,0 pg/g fat

-

4.1.1.7

of wild game birds

2,0 pg/g fat

4,0 pg/g fat

-

4.1.1.8

venison

3,0 pg/g fat

7,5 pg/g fat

-

4.1.2

Liver and derived products thereof

4.1.2.1

of bovine and caprine animals, pigs, poultry and horse

0,30 pg/g wet weight

0,50 pg/g wet weight

3,0 ng/g wet weight

4.1.2.2

of ovine animals

1,25 pg/g wet weight

2,00 pg/g wet weight

3,0 ng/g wet weight

4.1.2.3

of wild game birds

2,5 pg/g wet weight

5,0 pg/g wet weight

-

4.1.3

Fat

4.1.3.1

of bovine animals and sheep

2,5 pg/g fat

4,0 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

4.1.3.2

of pigs

1,0 pg/g fat

1,25 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

4.1.3.3

of poultry

1,75 pg/g fat

3,0 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

4.1.4

Mixed animal fats

1,5 pg/g fat

2,50 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

4.1.5

Fishery products (2) and bivalve molluscs (2) except products listed in 4.1.6, 4.1.7, 4.1.8, 4.1.9 and 4.1.10

3,5 pg/g wet weight

6,5 pg/g wet weight

75 ng/g wet weight

In case of fish, maximum level applies to muscle meat of fish.

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

The maximum level for crustaceans applies to muscle meat from appendages and abdomen, that means, that the cephalothorax of crustaceans is excluded.

4.1.6

Muscle meat of wild caught fresh water fish and products thereof

3,5 pg/g wet weight

6,5 pg/g wet weight

125 ng/g wet weight

Except diadromous fish species caught in fresh water and products thereof

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

4.1.7

Muscle meat of wild caught spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) and products thereof

3,5 pg/g wet weight

6,5 pg/g wet weight

200 ng/g wet weight

4.1.8

Muscle meat of wild caught eel (Anguilla anguilla) and products thereof

3,5 pg/g wet weight

10,0 pg/g wet weight

300 ng/g wet weight

4.1.9

Fish liver and derived products thereof except products listed in 4.1.10

-

20,0 pg/g wet weight

200 ng/g wet weight

In the case of canned fish liver, the maximum level applies to the whole edible content of the can.

4.1.10

Marine oils (fish body oil, fish liver oil and oils of other marine organisms placed on the market for the final consumer)

1,75 pg/g fat

6,0 pg/g fat

200 ng/g fat

4.1.11

Raw milk (2) and dairy products (2)

2,0 pg/g fat

4,0 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

Including butter fat.

Maximum levels expressed on fat are not applicable for food containing < 2 % fat. For food containing less than 2 % fat, the maximum level applicable is the level on product basis corresponding to the level on product basis for the food containing 2 % fat, calculated from the maximum level established on fat basis, making use of following formula: Maximum level expressed on product basis for food containing less than 2 % fat = maximum level expressed on fat for that food × 0,02.

4.1.12

Eggs and egg products except goose eggs (2)

2,5 pg/g fat

5,0 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

Maximum levels expressed on fat are not applicable for food containing < 2 % fat. For food containing less than 2 % fat, the maximum level applicable is the level on product basis corresponding to the level on product basis for the food containing 2 % fat, calculated from the maximum level established on fat basis, making use of following formula: Maximum level expressed on product basis for food containing less than 2 % fat = maximum level expressed on fat for that food × 0,02.

4.1.13

Vegetable oils and fats

0,75 pg/g fat

1,25 pg/g fat

40 ng/g fat

4.1.14

Food intended for infants and young children (3)

0,1 pg/g wet weight

0,2 pg/g wet weight

1,0 ng/g wet weight

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).

4.2

Perfluoroalkyl substances

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

PFOS

PFOA

PFNA

PFHxS

Sum of PFOS, PFOA, PFNA and PFHxS

The maximum level applies to the wet weight.

PFOS: perfluorooctane sulfonic acid

PFOA: perfluorooctanoic acid

PFNA: perfluorononanoic acid

PFHxS: perfluorohexane sulfonic acid

For PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFHxS and their sum, the maximum level refers to the sum of linear and branched stereoisomers, whether they are chromatographically separated or not.

For the sum of PFOS, PFOA, PFNA and PFHxS, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values below the limit of quantification are zero.

4.2.1

Meat and edible offal (2)

4.2.1.1

Meat of bovine animals, pig and poultry

0,30

0,80

0,20

0,20

1,3

4.2.1.2

Meat of sheep

1,0

0,20

0,20

0,20

1,6

4.2.1.3

Offal of bovine animals, sheep, pig and poultry

6,0

0,70

0,40

0,50

8,0

4.2.1.4

Meat of game animals, with the exception of bear meat

5,0

3,5

1,5

0,60

9,0

4.2.1.5

Offal of game animals, with the exception of bear offal

50

25

45

3,0

50

4.2.2

Fishery products (2) and bivalve molluscs (2)

In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound food, Article 3(1) and (2) apply.

4.2.2.1

Fish meat

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

4.2.2.1.1

Muscle meat of fish, except products listed in 4.2.2.1.2 and 4.2.2.1.3

Muscle meat of fish listed in 4.2.2.1.2 and 4.2.2.1.3, in case it is intended for the production of food for infants and young children

2,0

0,20

0,50

0,20

2,0

4.2.2.1.2

Muscle meat of the following fish, in case it is not intended for the production of food for infants and young children:

Baltic herring (Clupea harengus membras)

Bonito (Sarda and Orcynopsis species)

Burbot (Lota lota)

European sprat (Sprattus sprattus)

Flounder (Platichthys flesus and Glyptocephalus cynoglossus)

Grey mullet (Mugil cephalus)

Horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus)

Pike (Esox species)

Plaice (Pleuronectes and Lepidopsetta species)

Sardine and pilchard (Sardina species)

Seabass (Dicentrarchus species)

Sea catfish (Silurus and Pangasius species)

Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus)

Tench (Tinca tinca)

Vendace (Coregonus albula and Coregonus vandesius)

Silverly lightfish (Phosichthys argenteus)

Wild salmon and wild trout (wild Salmo and Oncorhynchus species)

Wolf fish (Anarhichas species)

7,0

1,0

2,5

0,20

8,0

4.2.2.1.3

Muscle meat of the following fish, in case it is not intended for the production of food for infants and young children:

Anchovy (Engraulis species)

Babel (Barbus barbus)

Bream (Abramis species)

Char (Salvelinus species)

Eel (Anguilla species)

Pike-perch (Sander species)

Perch (Perca fluviatilis)

Roach (Rutilus rutilus)

Smelt (Osmerus species)

Whitefish (Coregonus species other than those listed in 4.2.2.1.2)

35

8,0

8,0

1,5

45

4.2.2.2

Crustaceans and bivalve molluscs

3,0

0,70

1,0

1,5

5,0

For crustaceans, the maximum level applies to muscle meat from appendages and abdomen, that means, that the cephalothorax of crustaceans is excluded. In case of crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura), the maximum level applies to the muscle meat from appendages.

In case of Pecten maximus, the maximum level applies to the adductor muscle and gonad only.

For canned crustaceans, the maximum level applies to the whole content of the can. As regards the maximum level for the whole composite product, Article 3(1), point (c) and Article 3(2) apply.

4.2.3

Eggs

1,0

0,30

0,70

0,30

1,7

5

Processing contaminants

5.1

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

Benzo(a)pyrene

Sum of PAHs: benzo(a)pyrene, benz(a)anthracene, benzo(b) fluoranthene and chrysene

For the sum of PAHs, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the four substances below the limit of quantification are zero.

5.1.1

Banana chips

2,0

20,0

5.1.2

Powders of food of plant origin for the preparation of beverages except products listed in 5.1.4 and 5.1.5

10,0

50,0

The preparation of beverages refers to the use of powders that are finely ground and are stirred into drinks.

Except instant or soluble coffee.

5.1.3

Dried herbs

10,0

50,0

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

5.1.4

Cocoa beans and derived products except products listed in 5.1.5

5,0 μg/kg fat

30,0 μg/kg fat

Including cocoa butter.

5.1.5

Cocoa fibre and products derived from cocoa fibre intended for use as an ingredient in food

3,0

15,0

Cocoa fibre is a specific cocoa product produced from the shell of the cocoa bean and contains higher levels of PAHs than the cocoa products produced from the cocoa nibs. The cocoa fibre and derived products are intermediate products in the production chain and are used as an ingredient in the preparation of low calorie, high fibre food.

5.1.6

Smoked meat and smoked meat products

2,0

12,0

5.1.7

Smoked fishery products (2) except products listed in 5.1.8

2,0

12,0

In case of fish, the maximum level applies to muscle meat of fish.

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

The maximum level for smoked crustaceans applies to muscle meat from appendages and abdomen, that means, that the cephalothorax of crustaceans is excluded. In case of smoked crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura) it applies to muscle meat from appendages.

5.1.8

Smoked sprats and canned smoked sprats (Sprattus sprattus)

Smoked Baltic herring ≤ 14 cm length and canned smoked Baltic herring ≤ 14 cm length (Clupea harengus membras)

Katsuobushi (dried bonito, Katsuwonus pelamis)

Bivalve molluscs (2) (fresh, chilled or frozen)

Heat treated meat and heat treated meat products placed on the market for the final consumer

5,0

30,0

Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level applies to the whole fish.

Meat and meat products that have undergone a heat treatment potentially resulting in formation of PAH, i.e. only grilling and barbecuing.

For the canned products, the maximum level applies to the whole content of the can. As regards the maximum level for the whole composite product, Article 3(1), point (c) and Article 3(2) apply.

5.1.9

Smoked bivalve molluscs (2)

6,0

35,0

5.1.10

Dried spices

10,0

50,0

Except cardamom and smoked Capsicum spp.

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

5.1.11

Oils and fats placed on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

2,0

10,0

Except cocoa butter and coconut oil.

This maximum level applies to vegetable oils used as an ingredient in food supplements.

5.1.12

Coconut oil placed on the market for the final consumer or use as an ingredient in food

2,0

20,0

5.1.13

Infant formulae, follow-on formulae (3) and young-child formulae (4)

1,0

1,0

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).

5.1.14

Baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

1,0

1,0

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

5.1.15

Food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3)

1,0

1,0

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).

5.1.16

Food supplements containing botanicals and their preparations (13)

Food supplements containing propolis, royal jelly, spirulina or their preparations

10,0

50,0

The maximum level does not apply to food supplements containing vegetable oils. For vegetable oils used as an ingredient in food supplements, see point 5.1.11.

5.2

3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD)

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

5.2.1

Hydrolysed vegetable protein

20

The maximum level is given for the liquid product containing 40 % dry matter, corresponding to a maximum level of 50 μg/kg in the dry matter. The level needs to be adjusted proportionally according to the dry matter content of the products.

5.2.2

Soy sauce

20

The maximum level is given for the liquid product containing 40 % dry matter, corresponding to a maximum level of 50 μg/kg in the dry matter. The level needs to be adjusted proportionally according to the dry matter content of the products.

5.3

Sum of 3-monochloropropanediol (3-MCPD) and 3-MCPD fatty acid esters, expressed as 3-MCPD

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

For the sum of 3-monochloropropanediol (3-MCPD) and 3-MCPD fatty acid esters, maximum levels refer to lower bound concentrations, which are calculated on the assumption that all the values below the limit of quantification are zero.

5.3.1

Vegetable oils and fats, fish oils and oils from other marine organisms except products listed in 5.3.2 placed on the market for the final consumer or for use as an ingredient in food falling within the following categories:

Except virgin olive oils (7).

5.3.1.1

oils and fats from coconut, maize, rapeseed, sunflower, soybean, palm kernel and olive oils (composed of refined olive oil and virgin olive oil) and mixtures of oils and fats with oils and fats only from this category

1 250

Except virgin olive oils (7).

5.3.1.2

other vegetable oils, fish oils and oils from other marine organisms and mixtures of oils and fats with oils and fats only from this category

2 500

Including pomace olive oils.

5.3.1.3

mixtures of oils and fats from products listed in 5.3.1.1 and 5.3.1.2

-

The oils and fats used as ingredient for the mixture shall comply with the maximum level established for the oil and fat. Therefore, the level of the sum of 3-MCPD and 3-MCPD fatty acid esters, expressed as 3-MCPD in the mixture, shall not exceed the level calculated in accordance with Article 3(1), point (c).

In case the quantitative composition is not known for the competent authority and the food business operator, not producing the mixture, the level of the sum of 3-MCPD and 3-MCPD fatty acid esters, expressed as 3-MCPD in the mixture shall in any case not exceed 2 500 μg/kg.

5.3.2

Vegetable oils and fats, fish oils and oils from other marine organisms destined for the production of baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

750

When the product is a mixture of different oils or fats of the same or of different botanical origins, the maximum level applies for the mixture. The oils and fats used as ingredient for the mixture shall comply with the maximum level established for the oil and fat in point 5.3.1.

5.3.3

Infant formulae, follow-on formulae and food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3) and young-child formulae (4)

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

5.3.3.1

placed on the market as powder

125

5.3.3.2

placed on the market as liquid

15

5.4

Glycidyl fatty acid esters, expressed as glycidol

Maximum level (μg/kg)

Remarks

5.4.1

Vegetable oils and fats, fish oils and oils from other marine organisms placed on the market for the final consumer or for use as an ingredient in food except products listed in 5.4.2

1 000

Except virgin olive oils (7).

5.4.2

Vegetable oils and fats, fish oils and oils from other marine organisms destined for the production of baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

500

When the product is a mixture of different oils or fats of the same or of different botanical origins, the maximum level applies for the mixture.

The oils and fats used as ingredient for the mixture shall comply with the maximum level established for the oil and fat in point 5.4.1.

5.4.3

Infant formulae, follow-on formulae and food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3) and young-child formulae (4)

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

5.4.3.1

placed on the market as powder

50

5.4.3.2

placed on the market as liquid

6,0

6

Other contaminants

6.1

Nitrates

Maximum level

(mg NO3/kg)

6.1.1

Fresh spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

3 500

The maximum level does not apply for fresh spinach for processing, which is directly transported in bulk from field to processing plant.

6.1.2

Preserved, deep-frozen or frozen spinach

2 000

6.1.3

Fresh lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) except products listed in 6.1.4

6.1.3.1

Lettuce grown under cover, harvested between 1 October and 31 March

5 000

Lettuce grown under cover has to be labelled as such; otherwise the maximum level specified in 6.1.3.2 applies.

6.1.3.2

Lettuce grown in the open air, harvested between 1 October and 31 March

4 000

6.1.3.3

Lettuce grown under cover, harvested between 1 April and 30 September

4 000

Lettuce grown under cover has to be labelled as such; otherwise the maximum level specified in 6.1.3.4 applies.

6.1.3.4

Lettuce grown in the open air, harvested between 1 April and 30 September

3 000

6.1.4

‘Iceberg’ type lettuce

Including Grazer Krauthäuptl.

6.1.4.1

Lettuce grown under cover

2 500

Lettuce grown under cover has to be labelled as such; otherwise the maximum level specified in 6.1.4.2 applies.

6.1.4.2

Lettuce grown in the open air

2 000

6.1.5

Rucola (Eruca sativa, Diplotaxis sp., Brassica tenuifolia, Sisymbrium tenuifolium)

6.1.5.1

harvested between 1 October and 31 March

7 000

6.1.5.2

harvested between 1 April and 30 September

6 000

6.1.6

Baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children (3)

200

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).

6.2

Melamine

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

6.2.1

Food except products listed in 6.2.2

2,5

The maximum level does not apply to food for which it can be proven that the level of melamine higher than 2,5 mg/kg is the consequence of authorized use of cyromazine as insecticide. The melamine level shall not exceed the level of cyromazine.

6.2.2

Infant formulae, follow-on formulae (3) and young-child formulae (4)

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.

6.2.2.1

placed on the market as powder

1,0

6.2.2.2

placed on the market as liquid

0,15

6.3

Perchlorate

Maximum level (mg/kg)

Remarks

6.3.1

Fruits and vegetables except of products listed in 6.3.1.1 and 6.3.1.2

0,05

6.3.1.1

Cucurbitaceae and kale

0,10

6.3.1.2

Leaf vegetables and herbs

0,50

6.3.2

Tea (Camellia sinensis) (dried product)

Herbal and fruit infusions (dried product) and ingredients used for herbal and fruit infusions (dried products)

0,75

‘Herbal infusions (dried product)’ refers to:

—

herbal infusions (dried product) from flowers, leaves, stalks, roots, and any other parts of the plant (in sachets or in bulk) used for the preparation of herbal infusion (liquid product); and

—

instant herbal infusions. In the case of powdered extracts, a concentration factor of 4 has to be applied.

6.3.3

Infant formulae, follow-on formulae, food for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (3) and young-child formulae (4)

0,01

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).

6.3.4

Baby food (3)

0,02

The maximum level applies to the products ready to use (placed on the market as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).

6.3.5

Processed cereal-based food (3)

0,01

The maximum level applies to the product as placed on the market.