In January 2023, the new maximum limits of ochratoxin A in certain foods approved in August by Commission Regulation (UE) 2022/1370 of August 5, 2022 will come into force, amending Regulation (EC) nº 1881 /2006 regarding the maximum content of ochratoxin A in certain food products .
Ochratoxin A is a mycotoxin produced naturally by fungi of the genera Aspergillus and Penicillium and is found as a contaminant in a wide variety of foods, such as cereals and cereal-based products, coffee beans, dried fruits, wine and grape juice, spices and licorice. Ochratoxin A is formed during drying in the sun and storage of crops. Formation can be avoided by applying good drying and storage practices.
Regulation (EC) nº1881/2006 already established the maximum content of ochratoxin A for certain foods. This new regulation:
Establish maximum limit of ochratoxin A for:
- Nuts other than raisins.
- Certain licorice products.
- dry herbs
- Certain ingredients for infusions.
- Certain oleaginous seeds.
- pistachios
- Cocoa powder
- Malt-based non-alcoholic drinks
Reduces the existing maximum limits of ochratoxin A for:
- Bakery products.
- raisins
- roasted coffee
- instant coffee
In addition, it extends to all species the provisions in force relating to ochratoxin A in certain species.
FoodWorld 