Ref. 23PFP016 • Brussels, 14 September 2023
Primary Food Processors (PFP) take note of the conclusions of the updated European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) opinion on Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons (MOH) in food and reaffirm their commitment to addressing contamination risks throughout the agri food value chain.
Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons contamination in food has been a significant issue for the sector for several years. According to EFSA’s updated scientific opinion, contamination may originate from a variety of sources throughout production, processing, packaging and distribution chains, highlighting the complexity of the challenge.
EFSA identified several potential sources of contamination, including environmental exposure, airborne contamination, lubricants used in industrial machinery, release agents, processing aids, food and feed additives, and migration from food contact materials. The opinion also highlights the complexity of modern supply chains and the challenges associated with tracing contamination pathways.
PFP members have already undertaken extensive efforts to better understand, monitor and reduce contamination risks. These activities include identifying contamination routes for products, evaluating analytical and detection challenges, investigating mitigation measures, monitoring supply chains and collaborating with stakeholders throughout the food system.
The organisation supports evidence based scientific assessment and continues to contribute to the regulatory and technical discussions surrounding MOH contamination. This includes providing occurrence data, sharing technical expertise, participating in EFSA consultation processes and engaging constructively with stakeholders across the value chain.
PFP believes that effective management of MOH contamination requires collaboration among industry, regulators, researchers and other stakeholders. Continued scientific research, robust analytical methods and practical mitigation measures will remain important components of future efforts.
PFP remains committed to continuing its efforts to address Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons contamination and to participating actively in future scientific, technical and regulatory discussions.
PFP brings together the European Committee of Sugar Manufacturers (CEFS), the European Cocoa Association (ECA), the European Flour Milling Association, the European Starch Industry Association (Starch Europe), the European Vegetable Protein Association (EUVEPRO), and the European Vegetable Oil and Proteinmeal Industry (FEDIOL).
PFP members process approximately 220 million tonnes of raw materials and employ more than 120,000 people across the European Union.
