Commission Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 of 19 December 2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs (Text with EEA relevance)
Modified by
  • Commission Regulation (EC) No 1126/2007of 28 September 2007amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs as regards Fusarium toxins in maize and maize products(Text with EEA relevance), 32007R1126, September 29, 2007
  • Commission Regulation (EC) No 565/2008of 18 June 2008amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs as regards the establishment of a maximum level for dioxins and PCBs in fish liver(Text with EEA relevance), 32008R0565, June 19, 2008
  • Commission Regulation (EC) No 629/2008of 2 July 2008amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32008R0629, July 3, 2008
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 105/2010of 5 February 2010amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs as regards ochratoxin A(Text with EEA relevance), 32010R0105, February 6, 2010
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 165/2010of 26 February 2010amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs as regards aflatoxins(Text with EEA relevance), 32010R0165, February 27, 2010
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 420/2011of 29 April 2011amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32011R0420, April 30, 2011
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 835/2011of 19 August 2011amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32011R0835, August 20, 2011
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 1258/2011of 2 December 2011amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels for nitrates in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32011R1258, December 3, 2011
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 1259/2011of 2 December 2011amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels for dioxins, dioxin-like PCBs and non dioxin-like PCBs in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32011R1259, December 3, 2011
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 219/2012of 14 March 2012correcting the Romanian version of Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32012R0219, March 15, 2012
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 594/2012of 5 July 2012amending Regulation (EC) 1881/2006 as regards the maximum levels of the contaminants ochratoxin A, non dioxin-like PCBs and melamine in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32012R0594, July 6, 2012
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 1058/2012of 12 November 2012amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels for aflatoxins in dried figs(Text with EEA relevance), 32012R1058, November 13, 2012
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 1067/2013of 30 October 2013amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of the contaminants dioxins, dioxin-like PCBs and non-dioxin-like PCBs in liver of terrestrial animals(Text with EEA relevance), 32013R1067, October 31, 2013
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 212/2014of 6 March 2014amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of the contaminant citrinin in food supplements based on rice fermented with red yeast Monascus purpureus(Text with EEA relevance), 32014R0212, March 7, 2014
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 362/2014of 9 April 2014correcting the Spanish language version of Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32014R0362, April 10, 2014
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 488/2014of 12 May 2014amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of cadmium in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32014R0488, May 13, 2014
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 696/2014of 24 June 2014amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of erucic acid in vegetable oils and fats and foods containing vegetable oils and fats(Text with EEA relevance), 32014R0696, June 25, 2014
  • Commission Regulation (EU) No 1327/2014of 12 December 2014amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in traditionally smoked meat and meat products and traditionally smoked fish and fishery products(Text with EEA relevance), 32014R1327, December 13, 2014
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/704of 30 April 2015amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards the maximum level of non-dioxin-like PCBs in wild caught spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias)(Text with EEA relevance), 32015R0704, May 1, 2015
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/1005of 25 June 2015amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of lead in certain foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32015R1005, June 26, 2015
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/1006of 25 June 2015amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of inorganic arsenic in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance), 32015R1006, June 26, 2015
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/1125of 10 July 2015amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Katsuobushi (dried bonito) and certain smoked Baltic herring(Text with EEA relevance), 32015R1125, July 11, 2015
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/1137of 13 July 2015amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards the maximum level of Ochratoxin A in Capsicum spp. spices(Text with EEA relevance), 32015R1137, July 14, 2015
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/1933of 27 October 2015amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in cocoa fibre, banana chips, food supplements, dried herbs and dried spices(Text with EEA relevance), 32015R1933, October 28, 2015
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/1940of 28 October 2015amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of ergot sclerotia in certain unprocessed cereals and the provisions on monitoring and reporting(Text with EEA relevance), 32015R1940, October 29, 2015
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2016/239of 19 February 2016amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of tropane alkaloids in certain cereal-based foods for infants and young children(Text with EEA relevance), 32016R0239, February 20, 2016
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1237of 7 July 2017amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards a maximum level of hydrocyanic acid in unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped apricot kernels placed on the market for the final consumer(Text with EEA relevance), 32017R1237, July 8, 2017
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2018/290of 26 February 2018amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of glycidyl fatty acid esters in vegetable oils and fats, infant formula, follow-on formula and foods for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children(Text with EEA relevance), 32018R0290, February 27, 2018
Commission Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006of 19 December 2006setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs(Text with EEA relevance)
Article 1General rules1.The foodstuffs listed in the Annex shall not be placed on the market where they contain a contaminant listed in the Annex at a level exceeding the maximum level set out in the Annex.2.The maximum levels specified in the Annex shall apply to the edible part of the foodstuffs concerned, unless otherwise specified in the Annex.
Article 2Dried, diluted, processed and compound foodstuffs1.When applying the maximum levels set out in the Annex to foodstuffs which are dried, diluted, processed or composed of more than one ingredient, the following shall be taken into account:(a)changes of the concentration of the contaminant caused by drying or dilution processes;(b)changes of the concentration of the contaminant caused by processing;(c)the relative proportions of the ingredients in the product;(d)the analytical limit of quantification.2.The specific concentration or dilution factors for the drying, dilution, processing and/or mixing operations concerned or for the dried, diluted, processed and/or compound foodstuffs concerned shall be provided and justified by the food business operator, when the competent authority carries out an official control.If the food business operator does not provide the necessary concentration or dilution factor or if the competent authority deems that factor inappropriate in view of the justification given, the authority shall itself define that factor, based on the available information and with the objective of maximum protection of human health.3.Paragraphs 1 and 2 shall apply in so far as no specific Community maximum levels are fixed for these dried, diluted, processed or compound foodstuffs.4.As far as Community legislation does not provide for specific maximum levels for foods for infants and young children, Member States may provide for stricter levels.
Article 3Prohibitions on use, mixing and detoxification1.Foodstuffs not complying with the maximum levels set out in the Annex shall not be used as food ingredients.2.Foodstuffs complying with the maximum levels set out in the Annex shall not be mixed with foodstuffs which exceed these maximum levels.3.Foodstuffs to be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment to reduce contamination levels shall not be mixed with foodstuffs intended for direct human consumption or with foodstuffs intended for use as a food ingredient.4.Foodstuffs containing contaminants listed in section 2 of the Annex (Mycotoxins) shall not be deliberately detoxified by chemical treatments.
Article 4Specific provisions for groundnut, other oilseeds, tree nuts, dried fruit, rice and maizeGroundnuts (peanuts), other oilseeds, tree nuts, dried fruit, rice and maize not complying with the appropriate maximum levels of aflatoxins laid down in points 2.1.5, 2.1.6, 2.1.7, 2.1.8, 2.1.10 and 2.1.11 of the Annex can be placed on the market provided that these foodstuffs:(a)are not intended for direct human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs;(b)comply with the appropriate maximum levels laid down in points 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.3, 2.1.4, 2.1.9 and 2.1.12 of the Annex;(c)are subjected to a treatment involving sorting or other physical treatment and that after this treatment the maximum levels laid down in points 2.1.5, 2.1.6, 2.1.7, 2.1.8, 2.1.10 and 2.1.11 of the Annex are not exceeded, and this treatment does not result in other harmful residues;(d)are labelled clearly showing their use, and bearing the indication "product shall be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment to reduce aflatoxin contamination before human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs". The indication shall be included on the label of each individual bag, box etc. and on the original accompanying document. The consignment/batch identification code shall be indelibly marked on each individual bag, box etc. of the consignment and on the original accompanying document.
Article 5Specific provisions for groundnuts (peanuts), other oilseeds, derived products thereof and cerealsA clear indication of the intended use must appear on the label of each individual bag, box, etc. and on the original accompanying document. This accompanying document must have a clear link with the consignment by means of mentioning the consignment identification code, which is on each individual bag, box, etc. of the consignment. In addition the business activity of the consignee of the consignment given on the accompanying document must be compatible with the intended use.In the absence of a clear indication that their intended use is not for human consumption, the maximum levels laid down in points 2.1.5 and 2.1.11 of the Annex shall apply to all groundnuts (peanuts), other oilseeds and derived products thereof and cereals placed on the market.As regards the exception of groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds for crushing and the application of the maximum levels laid down in point 2.1.1 of the Annex, the exception only applies to consignments which are clearly labelled showing their use and bearing the indication "product to be subject to crushing for the production of refined vegetable oil". The indication shall be included on the label of each individual bag, box etc. and on the accompanying document(s). The final destination must be a crushing plant.
Article 6Specific provisions for lettuceUnless lettuce grown under cover (protected lettuce) is labelled as such, maximum levels set in the Annex for lettuce grown in the open air (open-grown lettuce) shall apply.
Article 7Derogations1.By way of derogation from Article 1, Belgium, Ireland, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom may authorise until 31 December 2008 the placing on the market of fresh spinach grown and intended for consumption in their territory with nitrate levels higher than the maximum levels set out in point 1.1 of the Annex.2.By way of derogation from Article 1, Ireland and the United Kingdom may authorise until 31 December 2008 the placing on the market of fresh lettuce grown and intended for consumption in their territory and harvested throughout the year with nitrate levels higher than the maximum levels set out in point 1.3 of the Annex.3.By way of derogation from Article 1, France may authorise until 31 December 2008 the placing on the market of fresh lettuce grown and intended for consumption in its territory and harvested from 1 October to 31 March with nitrate levels higher than the maximum levels set out in point 1.3 of the Annex.4.By way of derogation from Article 1, Finland, Sweden and Latvia may authorise the placing on their market of wild caught salmon (Salmo salar) and products thereof originating in the Baltic region and intended for consumption in their territory with levels of dioxins and/or dioxin-like PCBs and/or non-dioxin-like PCBs higher than those set out in point 5.3 of the Annex, provided that a system is in place to ensure that consumers are fully informed of the dietary recommendations with regard to the restrictions on the consumption of wild caught salmon from the Baltic region and products thereof by identified vulnerable sections of the population in order to avoid potential health risks.Finland, Sweden and Latvia shall continue to apply the necessary measures to ensure that wild caught salmon and products thereof not complying with point 5.3 of the Annex are not marketed in other Member States.Finland, Sweden and Latvia will report yearly to the Commission the measures they have taken to effectively inform the identified vulnerable sections of the population of the dietary recommendations and to ensure that wild caught salmon and products thereof not compliant with the maximum levels is not marketed in other Member States. They shall furthermore provide evidence of the effectiveness of these measures.5.By way of derogation from Article 1, Finland and Sweden may authorise the placing on their market of wild caught herring larger than 17 cm (Clupea harengus), wild caught char (Salvelinus spp.), wild caught river lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) and wild caught trout (Salmo trutta) and products thereof originating in the Baltic region and intended for consumption in their territory with levels of dioxins and/or dioxin-like PCBs and/or non dioxin-like PCBs higher than those set out in point 5.3 of the Annex, provided that a system is in place to ensure that consumers are fully informed of the dietary recommendations with regard to the restrictions on the consumption of wild caught herring larger than 17 cm, wild caught char, wild caught river lamprey and wild caught trout from the Baltic region and products thereof by identified vulnerable sections of the population in order to avoid potential health risks.Finland and Sweden shall continue to apply the necessary measures to ensure that wild caught herring larger than 17 cm, wild caught char, wild caught river lamprey and wild caught trout and products thereof not complying with point 5.3 of the Annex are not marketed in other Member States.Finland and Sweden will report yearly to the Commission the measures they have taken to effectively inform the identified vulnerable sections of the population of the dietary recommendations and to ensure that fish and products thereof not compliant with the maximum levels is not marketed in other Member States. They shall furthermore provide evidence of the effectiveness of these measures.6.By way of derogation from Article 1, Ireland, Spain, Croatia, Cyprus, Latvia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovak Republic, Finland, Sweden and the United Kingdom may authorise the placing on their market of traditionally smoked meat and smoked meat products, smoked in their territory and intended for consumption in their territory with levels of PAHs higher than those set out in point 6.1.4. of the Annex, provided that those products comply with the maximum levels applicable before 1 September 2014, i.e. 5,0 μg/kg for benzo(a)pyrene and 30,0 μg/kg for the sum of benzo(a)pyrene, benz(a)anthracene, benzo(b)fluoranthene and chrysene.Those Member States shall continue to monitor the presence of PAHs in traditionally smoked meat and smoked meat products and shall establish programmes to implement good smoking practices where possible, within the limits of what is economically feasible and what is possible without losing typical organoleptic characteristics of those products.Within 3 years from the application of the Regulation, the situation shall be re-assessed, on the basis of all available information, in view of determining a list of smoked meat and smoked meat products for which the derogation for local production and consumption shall be continued without a time limit.7.By way of derogation from Article 1, Ireland, Latvia, Romania, Finland, Sweden and the United Kingdom may authorise the placing on their market of traditionally smoked fish and smoked fishery products, smoked in their territory and intended for consumption in their territory with levels of PAHs higher than those set out in point 6.1.5. of the Annex, provided that those smoked products comply with the maximum levels applicable before 1 September 2014, i.e. 5,0 μg/kg for benzo(a)pyrene and 30,0 μg/kg for the sum of benzo(a)pyrene, benz(a)anthracene, benzo(b)fluoranthene and chrysene.These Member States shall continue to monitor the presence of PAHs in traditionally smoked fish and smoked fishery products and shall establish programmes to implement good smoking practices where possible, within the limits of what is economically feasible and what is possible without losing typical organoleptic characteristics of those products.Within 3 years from the application of this Regulation, the situation shall be re-assessed, on the basis of all available information, in view of determining a list of smoked fish and smoked fishery products for which the derogation for local production and consumption shall be continued without a time limit.
Article 8Sampling and analysisThe sampling and the analysis for the official control of the maximum levels specified in the Annex shall be performed in accordance with Commission Regulations (EC) No 1882/2006See page 25 of this Official Journal., No 401/2006OJ L 70, 9.3.2006, p. 12., No 1883/2006See page 32 of this Official Journal. and Commission Directives 2001/22/ECOJ L 77, 16.3.2001, p. 14. Directive as amended by Directive 2005/4/EC (OJ L 19, 21.1.2005, p. 50)., 2004/16/ECOJ L 42, 13.2.2004, p. 16. and 2005/10/ECOJ L 34, 8.2.2005, p. 15..
Article 9Monitoring and reporting1.Member States shall monitor nitrate levels in vegetables which may contain significant levels, in particular green leafy vegetables, and communicate the results to EFSA on a regular basis.2.Member States shall communicate to the Commission a summary of the findings on aflatoxins obtained in accordance with Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 884/2014Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 884/2014 of 13 August 2014 imposing special conditions governing the import of certain feed and food from certain third countries due to contamination risk by aflatoxins and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1152/2009 (OJ L 242, 14.8.2014, p. 4). and the individual occurrence data shall be reported to EFSA by the Member States.3.Member States and professional stakeholder organisations shall communicate each year to the Commission the results of investigations undertaken and the progress with regard to the application of prevention measures to avoid contamination by deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, fumonisin B1 and B2, T-2 and HT-2 toxin. The Commission shall make the results available to the Member States. The related occurrence data shall be reported to EFSA.4.Member States and professional stakeholder organisations are strongly recommended to monitor the presence of ergot alkaloids in cereals and cereal products.Member States and professional stakeholder organisations are strongly recommended to report to EFSA their findings on ergot alkaloids by 30 September 2016. Those findings shall include occurrence data and specific information on the relationship between the presence of ergot sclerotia and the level of individual ergot alkaloids.The Commission shall make those findings available to the Member States.5.Occurrence data on other contaminants than those referred to in paragraphs 1 to 4 collected by Member States and professional stakeholder organisations may be reported to EFSA.6.Occurrence data shall be provided to EFSA in the EFSA data submission format in accordance with the requirements of EFSA's Guidance on Standard Sample Description (SSD) for Food and Feedhttp://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/datex/datexsubmitdata.htm and the additional EFSA's specific reporting requirements for specific contaminants. The occurrence data from professional stakeholder organisations may be provided to EFSA, if appropriate, in a simplified data submission format, defined by EFSA.
Article 10RepealRegulation (EC) No 466/2001 is repealed.References to the repealed Regulation shall be construed as references to this Regulation.
Article 11Transitional measuresThis Regulation shall not apply to products that were placed on the market before the dates referred to in points (a) to (f) in conformity with the provisions applicable at the respective date:(a)1 July 2006 as regards the maximum levels for deoxynivalenol and zearalenone laid down in points 2.4.1, 2.4.2, 2.4.4, 2.4.5, 2.4.6, 2.4.7, 2.5.1, 2.5.3, 2.5.5 and 2.5.7 of the Annex;(b)1 October 2007 as regards the maximum levels for deoxynivalenol and zearalenone laid down in points 2.4.3, 2.4.8, 2.4.9, 2.5.2, 2.5.4, 2.5.6, 2.5.8, 2.5.9 and 2.5.10 of the Annex;(c)1 October 2007 as regards the maximum levels for fumonisins B1 and B2 laid down in point 2.6 of the Annex;(d)4 November 2006 as regards the maximum levels for the sum of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs laid down in section 5 of the Annex;(e)01 January 2012 as regards the maximum levels for non dioxin-like PCBs laid down in section 5 of the Annex;(f)01 January 2015 as regards the maximum level for Ochratoxin A in Capsicum spp. laid down in point 2.2.11. of the Annex.The burden of proving when the products were placed on the market shall be borne by the food business operator.
Article 12Entry into force and applicationThis Regulation shall enter into force on the 20th day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.It shall apply from 1 March 2007.
This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.ANNEXMaximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffsThe maximum level is to be reviewed before 1 January 2016 in the light of information on exposure to citrinin from other foodstuffs and updated information on the toxicity of citrinin in particular as regards carcinogenicity and genotoxicity.The maximum level refers to the level of erucic acid, calculated on the total level of fatty acids in the fat component in food.The sampling shall be performed in accordance with point B of Annex I to Commission Regulation (EC) No 401/2006 (OJ L 70, 9.3.2006, p. 12).The analysis shall be performed by microscopic examination.Sum of 12 ergot alkaloids: ergocristine/ergocristinine; ergotamine/ergotaminine; ergocryptine/ergocryptinine; ergometrine/ergometrinine; ergosine/ergosinine; ergocornine/ergocorninine.Appropriate and achievable maximum levels, providing a high level of human health protection, shall be considered for these relevant food categories before 1 July 2017.The tropane alkaloids referred to are atropine and scopolamine. Atropine is the racemic mixture of (-)-hyoscyamine and (+)-hyoscyamine of which only the (-)-hyoscyamine enantiomer exhibits anticholinergic activity. As for analytical reasons it is not always possible to distinguish between the enantiomers of hyoscyamine, the maximum levels are established for atropine and scopolamine.Botanical preparations are preparations obtained from botanicals (e.g. whole, plant parts, fragmented or cut plants) by various processes (e.g. pressing, squeezing, extraction, fractionation, distillation, concentration, drying up and fermentation). This definition includes comminuted or powdered plants, plant parts, algae, fungi, lichen, tinctures, extracts, essential oils (other than the vegetable oils referred to in point 6.1.1), expressed juices and processed exudates.The maximum level does not apply to food supplements containing vegetable oils. Vegetable oils used as an ingredient in food supplements should comply with the maximum level established in point 6.1.1.As regards fruits, vegetables and cereals, reference is made to the foodstuffs listed in the relevant category as defined in Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 February 2005 on maximum residue levels of pesticides in or on food and feed of plant and animal origin and amending Council Directive 91/414/EEC (OJ L 70, 16.3.2005, p. 1) as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 178/2006 (OJ L 29, 2.2.2006, p. 3). This means, inter alia, that buckwheat (Fagopyrum sp) is included in "cereals" and buckwheat products are included in "cereal products". Tree nuts are not covered by the maximum level for fruit.The maximum levels do not apply for fresh spinach to be subjected to processing and which is directly transported in bulk from field to processing plant.Foodstuffs listed in this category as defined in Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 June 2013 on food intended for infants and young children, food for special medical purposes, and total diet replacement for weight control and repealing Council Directive 92/52/EEC, Commission Directives 96/8/EC, 1999/21/EC, 2006/125/EC and 2006/141/EC, Directive 2009/39/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and Commission Regulations (EC) No 41/2009 and (EC) No 953/2009 (OJ L 181, 29.6.2013, p. 35).The maximum level refers to the products ready to use (marketed as such or after reconstitution as instructed by the manufacturer).The maximum levels refer to the edible part of groundnuts (peanuts) and tree nuts. If groundnuts (peanuts) and tree nuts "in shell" are analysed, it is assumed when calculating the aflatoxin content all the contamination is on the edible part, except in the case of Brazil nuts.Foodstuffs listed in this category as defined in Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2004 laying down specific hygiene rules for food of animal origin (OJ L 226, 25.6.2004, p. 22).The maximum level refers to the dry matter. The dry matter is determined in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 401/2006.Foodstuffs listed in this category as defined in Commission Directive 2006/141/EC (OJ L 401, 30.12.2006, p. 1).Foodstuffs listed in this category as defined in Commission Directive 1999/21/EC of 25 March 1999 on dietary foods for special medical purposes (OJ L 91, 7.4.1999, p. 29).The maximum level refers in the case of milk and milk products, to the products ready for use (marketed as such or reconstituted as instructed by the manufacturer) and in the case of products other than milk and milk products, to the dry matter. The dry matter is determined in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 401/2006.Wine and sparkling wines as defined in Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a common organisation of the markets in agricultural products and repealing Council Regulations (EEC) No 922/72, (EEC) No 234/79, (EC) No 1037/2001 and (EC) No 1234/2007 (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 671).The maximum level applies to products produced from the 2005 harvest onwards.Foodstuffs listed in this category as defined in Regulation (EU) No 251/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 February 2014 on the definition, description, presentation, labelling and the protection of geographical indications of aromatised wine products and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 1601/91 (OJ L 84, 20.3.2014, p. 14).The maximum level for OTA applicable to these beverages is function of the proportion of wine and/or grape must present in the finished product.Foodstuffs listed in this category as defined in Council Directive 2001/112/EC of 20 December 2001 relating to fruit juices and certain similar products intended for human consumption (OJ L 10, 12.1.2002, p. 58).Foodstuffs listed in this category as defined in Council Regulation (EEC) No 1576/89 of 29 May 1989 laying down general rules on the definition, description and presentation of spirit drinks (OJ L 160, 12.6.1989, p. 1), as last amended by the Protocol concerning the conditions and arrangements for admission of the Republic of Bulgaria and Romania to the European Union.Infants and young children as defined in Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 June 2013 on food intended for infants and young children, food for special medical purposes, and total diet replacement for weight control and repealing Council Directive 92/52/EEC, Commission Directives 96/8/EC, 1999/21/EC, 2006/125/EC and 2006/141/EC, Directive 2009/39/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and Commission Regulations (EC) No 41/2009 and (EC) No 953/2009 (OJ L 181, 29.6.2013, p. 35).For the purpose of the application of maximum levels for deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, T-2 and HT-2 toxin established in points 2.4, 2.5 and 2.7 rice is not included in "cereals" and rice products are not included in "cereal products".The maximum level applies to unprocessed cereals placed on the market for first-stage processing."First-stage processing" means any physical or thermal treatment, other than drying, of or on the grain. Cleaning, including scouring, sorting and drying procedures are not considered to be "first-stage processing" in so far as the whole grain remains intact after cleaning and sorting.Scouring is cleaning cereals by brushing and/or scrubbing it vigorously.In case scouring is applied in the presence of ergot sclerotia, the cereals need to undergo a first cleaning step before scouring. The scouring, performed in combination with a dust aspirator, is followed by a colour sorting before milling.Integrated production and processing systems means systems whereby all incoming lots of cereals are cleaned, sorted and processed in the same establishment. In such integrated production and processing systems, the maximum level applies to the unprocessed cereals after cleaning and sorting but before first-stage processing.Food business operators shall ensure compliance through their HACCP procedure whereby an effective monitoring procedure is established and implemented at this critical control point.The maximum level applies to cereals harvested and taken over, as from the 2005/06 marketing year, in accordance with Commission Regulation (EC) No 824/2000 of 19 April 2000 establishing procedures for the taking-over of cereals by intervention agencies and laying down methods of analysis for determining the quality of cereals (OJ L 100, 20.4.2000, p. 31), as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 1068/2005 (OJ L 174, 7.7.2005, p. 65).Maximum level shall apply from 1 October 2007.This category includes also similar products otherwise denominated such as semolina.Pasta (dry) means pasta with a water content of approximately 12 %.Maximum level shall apply from 1 October 2007.Fish listed in this category as defined in category (a), with the exclusion of fish liver falling under code CN 03027000, of the list in Article 1 of Council Regulation (EC) No 104/2000 (OJ L 17, 21.1.2000, p. 22) as last amended by the Act concerning the conditions of accession of the Czech Republic, the Republic of Estonia, the Republic of Cyprus, the Republic of Latvia, the Republic of Lithuania, the Republic of Hungary, the Republic of Malta, the Republic of Poland, the Republic of Slovenia and the Slovak Republic and the adjustments to the Treaties on which the European Union is founded (OJ L 236, 23.9.2003, p. 33). In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound foodstuffs Article 2(1) and 2(2) apply.Where fish are intended to be eaten whole, the maximum level shall apply to the whole fish.Foodstuffs falling within categories (c) and (i) of the list in Annex I of Regulation (EU) No 1379/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the common organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products, amending Council Regulation (EC) No 1184/2006 and (EC) No 1224/2009 and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 104/2000 (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 1), as appropriate (species as listed in the relevant entry). In case of dried, diluted, processed and/or compound foodstuffs Article 2(1) and 2(2) apply. In case of Pecten maximus, the maximum level applies to the adductor muscle and gonad only.The maximum level applies after washing of the fruit or vegetables and separating the edible part.The maximum level applies to products produced from the 2001 fruit harvest onwards.The maximum level refers to the product as sold.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.Dioxins (sum of polychlorinated dibenzo-para-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), expressed as World Health Organisation (WHO) toxic equivalent using the WHO-toxic equivalency factors (WHO-TEFs)) and sum of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs (sum of PCDDs, PCDFs and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), expressed as WHO toxic equivalent using the WHO-TEFs). WHO-TEFs for human risk assessment based on the conclusions of the World Health Organization (WHO) – International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) expert meeting which was held in Geneva in June 2005 (Martin van den Berg et al., The 2005 World Health Organization Re-evaluation of Human and Mammalian Toxic Equivalency Factors for Dioxins and Dioxin-like Compounds. Toxicological Sciences 93(2), 223–241 (2006))
Dibenzo-p-dioxins ("PCDDs")Dibenzofurans ("PCDFs")"Dioxin-like" PCBs Non-ortho PCBs + Mono-ortho PCBsNon-ortho PCBsMono-ortho PCBs
CongenerTEF value
2,3,7,8-TCDD1
1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD1
1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDD0,1
1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD0,1
1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD0,1
1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD0,01
OCDD0,0003
2,3,7,8-TCDF0,1
1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF0,03
2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF0,3
1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF0,1
1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF0,1
1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF0,1
2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF0,1
1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF0,01
1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF0,01
OCDF0,0003
PCB 770,0001
PCB 810,0003
PCB 1260,1
PCB 1690,03
PCB 1050,00003
PCB 1140,00003
PCB 1180,00003
PCB 1230,00003
PCB 1560,00003
PCB 1570,00003
PCB 1670,00003
PCB 1890,00003
Abbreviations used: "T" = tetra; "Pe" = penta; "Hx" = hexa; "Hp" = hepta; "O" = octa; "CDD" = chlorodibenzodioxin; "CDF" = chlorodibenzofuran; "CB" = chlorobiphenyl.Upperbound concentrations: Upperbound concentrations 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.The maximum level expressed on fat is not applicable for foods containing < 2 % fat. For foods 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 foods containing less than 2 % fat = maximum level expressed on fat for that food x 0,02.Foodstuffs listed in this category as defined in categories (a), (b), (c), (e) and (f) of the list in Article 1 of Regulation (EC) No 104/2000, with the exclusion of fish liver referred to in point 5.11.Benzo(a)pyrene, for which maximum levels are listed, is used as a marker for the occurrence and effect of carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These measures therefore provide full harmonisation on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the listed foods across the Member States.Foodstuffs listed in this category as defined in categories (b), (c) and (i) of the list in Annex 1 of Regulation (EU) No 1379/2013.The exemption applies only for maize for which it is evident e.g. through labelling, destination, that it is intended for use in a wet milling process only (starch production).In the case of canned fish liver, the maximum level applies to the whole edible content of the can.The maximum level applies to the food supplements as sold.Oilseeds falling under codes CN 1201, 1202, 1203, 1204, 1205, 1206, 1207 and derived products CN 1208; melon seeds fall under code ex120799.In case derived/processed products thereof are derived/processed solely or almost solely from the tree nuts concerned, the maximum levels as established for the corresponding tree nuts apply also to the derived/processed products. In other cases, Article 2(1) and 2(2) apply for the derived/processed products.The maximum level applies to the pure and undiluted extract, obtained whereby 1 kg of extract is obtained from 3 to 4 kg liquorice root.The maximum level for leaf vegetables does not apply to fresh herbs (falling under Code number 0256000 in Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 396/2005).Muscle meat from appendages and abdomen. This definition excludes the cephalothorax of crustaceans. In case of crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura): muscle meat from appendages.Lower bound concentrations are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the four substances below the limit of quantification are zero.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 product the analysis shall be carried out on the whole content of the can. As regards the maximum level for the whole composite product Art. 2(1)(c) and 2(2) shall apply.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.For the specific cocoa and chocolate products the defxinitions set out in points A. 2, 3 and 4 of Annex I to Directive 2000/36/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 June 2000 relating to cocoa and chocolate products intended for human consumption (OJ L 197, 3.8.2000, p. 19) apply.Sum of As(III) and As(V).Rice, husked rice, milled rice and parboiled rice as defined in Codex Standard 198-1995.The maximum level applies to the animal as sold without viscera.For potatoes, the maximum level applies to peeled potatoes."Unprocessed products" as defined in Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2004 on the hygiene of foodstuffs (OJ L 139, 30.4.2004, p. 1)."Placing on the market" and "final consumer" as defined in Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law, establishing the European Food Safety Authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety (OJ L 31, 1.2.2002, p. 1).
Section 1:Nitrate
FoodstuffsMaximum levels (mg NO3/kg)
1.1Fresh spinach (Spinacia oleracea)3500
1.2Preserved, deep-frozen or frozen spinach2000
1.3Fresh Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) (protected and open-grown lettuce) excluding lettuce listed in point 1.4Harvested 1 October to 31 March:
lettuce grown under cover5000
lettuce grown in the open air4000
Harvested 1 April to 30 September:
lettuce grown under cover4000
lettuce grown in the open air3000
1.4"Iceberg" type lettuceLettuce grown under cover2500
Lettuce grown in the open air2000
1.5Rucola (Eruca sativa, Diplotaxis sp., Brassica tenuifolia, Sisymbrium tenuifolium)Harvested 1 October to 31 March:7000
Harvested 1 April to 30 September:6000
1.6Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children200
Section 2:Mycotoxins
FoodstuffsMaximum levels (μg/kg)
2.1.AflatoxinsB1Sum of B1, B2, G1 and G2M1
2.1.1.Groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds, to be subjected to sorting, or other physical treatment, before human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs,with the exception of:groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds for crushing for refined vegetable oil production8,015,0—
2.1.2.Almonds, pistachios and apricot kernels to be subjected to sorting, or other physical treatment, before human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs12,015,0—
2.1.3.Hazelnuts and Brazil nuts, to be subjected to sorting, or other physical treatment, before human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs8,015,0
2.1.4.Tree nuts, other than the tree nuts listed in 2.1.2 and 2.1.3, to be subjected to sorting, or other physical treatment, before human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs5,010,0—
2.1.5.Groundnuts (peanuts) and other oilseeds and processed products thereof, intended for direct human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs,with the exception of:crude vegetable oils destined for refiningrefined vegetable oils2,04,0—
2.1.6.Almonds, pistachios and apricot kernels, intended for direct human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs8,010,0—
2.1.7.Hazelnuts and Brazil nuts, intended for direct human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs5,010,0
2.1.8.Tree nuts, other than the tree nuts listed in 2.1.6 and 2.1.7, and processed products thereof, intended for direct human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs2,04,0—
2.1.9.Dried fruit, other than dried figs, to be subjected to sorting, or other physical treatment, before human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs5,010,0—
2.1.10.Dried fruit, other than dried figs, and processed products thereof, intended for direct human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs2,04,0—
2.1.11.All cereals and all products derived from cereals, including processed cereal products, with the exception of foodstuffs listed in 2.1.12, 2.1.15 and 2.1.172,04,0—
2.1.12.Maize and rice to be subjected to sorting or other physical treatment before human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs5,010,0—
2.1.13.Raw milk, heat-treated milk and milk for the manufacture of milk-based products——0,050
2.1.14.Following species of spices:Capsicum spp. (dried fruits thereof, whole or ground, including chillies, chilli powder, cayenne and paprika)Piper spp. (fruits thereof, including white and black pepper)Myristica fragrans (nutmeg)Zingiber officinale (ginger)Curcuma longa (turmeric)Mixtures of spices containing one or more of the abovementioned spices5,010,0—
2.1.15.Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children0,10——
2.1.16.Infant formulae and follow-on formulae, including infant milk and follow-on milk——0,025
2.1.17.Dietary foods for special medical purposes intended specifically for infants0,10—0,025
2.1.18.Dried figs6,010,0—
2.2Ochratoxin A
2.2.1Unprocessed cereals5,0
2.2.2.All products derived from unprocessed cereals, including processed cereal products and cereals intended for direct human consumption with the exception of foodstuffs listed in 2.2.9, 2.2.10 and 2.2.133,0
2.2.3Dried vine fruit (currants, raisins and sultanas)10,0
2.2.4Roasted coffee beans and ground roasted coffee, excluding soluble coffee5,0
2.2.5Soluble coffee (instant coffee)10,0
2.2.6Wine (including sparkling wine, excluding liqueur wine and wine with an alcoholic strength of not less than 15 % vol) and fruit wine2,0
2.2.7Aromatised wine, aromatised wine-based drinks and aromatised wine-product cocktails2,0
2.2.8Grape juice, concentrated grape juice as reconstituted, grape nectar, grape must and concentrated grape must as reconstituted, intended for direct human consumption2,0
2.2.9Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children0,50
2.2.10Dietary foods for special medical purposes intended specifically for infants0,50
2.2.11.Spices, including dried spices
Piper spp. (fruits thereof, including white and black pepper)Myristica fragrans (nutmeg)Zingiber officinale (ginger)Curcuma longa (turmeric)15 μg/kg
Capsicum spp. (dried fruits thereof, whole or ground, including chillies, chilli powder, cayenne and paprika)20 μg/kg
Mixtures of spices containing one of the abovementioned spices15 μg/kg
2.2.12.Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza inflate and other species)
2.2.12.1.Liquorice root, ingredient for herbal infusion20 μg/kg
2.2.12.2.Liquorice extract, for use in food in particular beverages and confectionary80 μg/kg
2.2.13.Wheat gluten not sold directly to the consumer8,0
2.3Patulin
2.3.1Fruit juices, concentrated fruit juices as reconstituted and fruit nectars50
2.3.2Spirit drinks, cider and other fermented drinks derived from apples or containing apple juice50
2.3.3Solid apple products, including apple compote, apple puree intended for direct consumption with the exception of foodstuffs listed in 2.3.4 and 2.3.525
2.3.4Apple juice and solid apple products, including apple compote and apple puree, for infants and young children and labelled and sold as such10,0
2.3.5Baby foods other than processed cereal-based foods for infants and young children10,0
2.4Deoxynivalenol
2.4.1Unprocessed cereals other than durum wheat, oats and maize1250
2.4.2Unprocessed durum wheat and oats1750
2.4.3Unprocessed maize, with the exception of unprocessed maize intended to be processed by wet milling1750
2.4.4Cereals intended for direct human consumption, cereal flour, bran and germ as end product marketed for direct human consumption, with the exception of foodstuffs listed in 2.4.7, 2.4.8 and 2.4.9750
2.4.5Pasta (dry)750
2.4.6Bread (including small bakery wares), pastries, biscuits, cereal snacks and breakfast cereals500
2.4.7Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children200
2.4.8Milling fractions of maize with particle size > 500 micron falling within CN code 110313 or 11032040 and other maize milling products with particle size > 500 micron not used for direct human consumption falling within CN code 19041010750
2.4.9Milling fractions of maize with particle size ≤ 500 micron falling within CN code 110220 and other maize milling products with particle size ≤ 500 micron not used for direct human consumption falling within CN code 190410101250
2.5Zearalenone
2.5.1Unprocessed cereals other than maize100
2.5.2Unprocessed maize with the exception of unprocessed maize intended to be processed by wet milling350
2.5.3Cereals intended for direct human consumption, cereal flour, bran and germ as end product marketed for direct human consumption, with the exception of foodstuffs listed in 2.5.6, 2.5.7, 2.5.8, 2.5.9 and 2.5.1075
2.5.4Refined maize oil400
2.5.5Bread (including small bakery wares), pastries, biscuits, cereal snacks and breakfast cereals, excluding maize-snacks and maize-based breakfast cereals50
2.5.6Maize intended for direct human consumption, maize-based snacks and maize-based breakfast cereals100
2.5.7Processed cereal-based foods (excluding processed maize-based foods) and baby foods for infants and young children20
2.5.8Processed maize-based foods for infants and young children20
2.5.9Milling fractions of maize with particle size > 500 micron falling within CN code 110313 or 11032040 and other maize milling products with particle size > 500 micron not used for direct human consumption falling within CN code 19041010200
2.5.10Milling fractions of maize with particle size ≤ 500 micron falling within CN code 110220 and other maize milling products with particle size ≤ 500 micron not used for direct human consumption falling within CN code 19041010300
2.6FumonisinsSum of B1 and B2
2.6.1Unprocessed maize, with the exception of unprocessed maize intended to be processed by wet milling4000
2.6.2Maize intended for direct human consumption, maize-based foods for direct human consumption, with the exception of foodstuffs listed in 2.6.3 and 2.6.41000
2.6.3Maize-based breakfast cereals and maize-based snacks800
2.6.4Processed maize-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children200
2.6.5Milling fractions of maize with particle size > 500 micron falling within CN code 110313 or 11032040 and other maize milling products with particle size > 500 micron not used for direct human consumption falling within CN code 190410101400
2.6.6Milling fractions of maize with particle size ≤ 500 micron falling within CN code 110220 and other maize milling products with particle size ≤ 500 micron not used for direct human consumption falling within CN code 190410102000
2.7T-2 and HT-2 toxinSum of T-2 and HT-2 toxin
2.7.1Unprocessed cereals and cereal products
2.8Citrinin
2.8.1Food supplements based on rice fermented with red yeast Monascus purpureus2000
2.9Ergot sclerotia and ergot alkaloids
2.9.1.Ergot sclerotia
2.9.1.1.Unprocessed cereals with the exception of corn and rice0,5 g/kg
2.9.2.Ergot alkaloids
2.9.2.1.Unprocessed cereals with the exception of corn and rice—
2.9.2.2.Cereal milling products excluding corn and rice milling products—
2.9.2.3.Bread (including small bakery wares), pastries, biscuits, cereal snacks, breakfast cereals and pasta—
2.9.2.4.Cereal-based food for infants and young children—
Section 3:Metals
FoodstuffsMaximum levels(mg/kg wet weight)
3.1Lead
3.1.1Raw milk, heat-treated milk and milk for the manufacture of milk-based products0,020
3.1.2Infant formulae and follow-on formulae
marketed as powder0,050
marketed as liquid0,010
3.1.3Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children other than 3.1.50,050
3.1.4Foods for special medical purposes intended specifically for infants and young children
marketed as powder0,050
marketed as liquid0,010
3.1.5Drinks for infants and young children labelled and sold as such, other than those mentioned in 3.1.2 and 3.1.4
marketed as liquids or to be reconstituted following instructions of the manufacturer including fruit juices0,030
to be prepared by infusion or decoction1,50
3.1.6Meat (excluding offal) of bovine animals, sheep, pig and poultry0,10
3.1.7Offal of bovine animals, sheep, pig and poultry0,50
3.1.8Muscle meat of fish0,30
3.1.9Cephalopods0,30
3.1.10Crustaceans0,50
3.1.11Bivalve molluscs1,50
3.1.12Cereals and pulses0,20
3.1.13Vegetables excluding leafy brassica, salsify, leaf vegetables & fresh herbs, fungi, seaweed and fruiting vegetables0,10
3.1.14Leafy brassica, salsify, leaf vegetables excluding fresh herbs and the following fungi Agaricus bisporus (common mushroom), Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster mushroom), Lentinula edodes (Shiitake mushroom)0,30
3.1.15Fruiting vegetables
sweetcorn0,10
other than sweetcorn0,05
3.1.16Fruit, excluding cranberries, currants, elderberries and strawberry tree fruit0,10
3.1.17Cranberries, currants, elderberries and strawberry tree fruit0,20
3.1.18Fats and oils, including milk fat0,10
3.1.19Fruit juices, concentrated fruit juices as reconstituted and fruit nectars
exclusively from berries and other small fruits0,05
from fruits other than berries and other small fruits0,03
3.1.20Wine (including sparkling wine, excluding liqueur wine), cider, perry and fruit wine
products produced from the 2001 fruit harvest to 2015 fruit harvest0,20
products produced from the 2016 fruit harvest onwards0,15
3.1.21Aromatised wine, aromatised wine-based drinks and aromatised wine-product cocktails
products produced from the 2001 fruit harvest to 2015 fruit harvest0,20
products produced from the 2016 fruit harvest onwards0,15
3.1.22Food supplements3,0
3.1.23Honey0,10
3.2Cadmium
3.2.1Vegetables and fruit, excluding root and tuber vegetables, leaf vegetables, fresh herbs, leafy brassica, stem vegetables, fungi and seaweed0,050
3.2.2Root and tuber vegetables (excluding celeriac, parsnips, salsify and horseradish), stem vegetables (excluding celery). For potatoes the maximum level applies to peeled potatoes0,10
3.2.3Leaf vegetables, fresh herbs, leafy brassica, celery, celeriac, parsnips, salsify, horseradish and the following fungi: Agaricus bisporus (common mushroom), Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster mushroom), Lentinula edodes (Shiitake mushroom)0,20
3.2.4Fungi, excluding those listed in point 3.2.31,0
3.2.5Cereal grains excluding wheat and rice0,10
3.2.6Wheat grains, rice grainsWheat bran and wheat germ for direct consumptionSoy beans0,20
3.2.7Specific cocoa and chocolate products as listed below
—Milk chocolate with < 30 % total dry cocoa solids0,10 as from 1 January 2019
—Chocolate with < 50 % total dry cocoa solids; milk chocolate with ≥ 30 % total dry cocoa solids0,30 as from 1 January 2019
—Chocolate with ≥ 50 % total dry cocoa solids0,80 as from 1 January 2019
—Cocoa powder sold to the final consumer or as an ingredient in sweetened cocoa powder sold to the final consumer (drinking chocolate)0,60 as from 1 January 2019
3.2.8Meat (excluding offal) of bovine animals, sheep, pig and poultry0,050
3.2.9Horsemeat, excluding offal0,20
3.2.10Liver of bovine animals, sheep, pig, poultry and horse0,50
3.2.11Kidney of bovine animals, sheep, pig, poultry and horse1,0
3.2.12Muscle meat of fish, excluding species listed in points 3.2.13, 3.2.14 and 3.2.150,050
3.2.13Muscle meat of the following fish:mackerel (Scomber species), tuna (Thunnus species, Katsuwonus pelamis, Euthynnus species), bichique (Sicyopterus lagocephalus)0,10
3.2.14Muscle meat of the following fish:bullet tuna (Auxis species)0,15
3.2.15Muscle meat of the following fish:anchovy (Engraulis species)swordfish (Xiphias gladius)sardine (Sardina pilchardus)0,25
3.2.16Crustaceans: muscle meat from appendages and abdomen. In case of crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura) muscle meat from appendages0,50
3.2.17Bivalve molluscs1,0
3.2.18Cephalopods (without viscera)1,0
3.2.19Infant formulae and follow on-formulae
—powdered formulae manufac- tured from cows' milk proteins or protein hydrolysates0,010 as from 1 January 2015
—liquid formulae manufactured from cows' milk proteins or protein hydrolysates0,005 as from 1 January 2015
—powdered formulae manufac-tured from soya protein isolates, alone or in a mixture with cows' milk proteins0,020 as from 1 January 2015
—liquid formulae manufactured from soya protein isolates, alone or in a mixture with cows' milk proteins0,010 as from 1 January 2015
3.2.20Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children0,040 as from 1 January 2015
3.2.21Food supplements excl. food supplements listed in point 3.2.221,0
3.2.22Food supplements consisting exclusively or mainly of dried seaweed, products derived from seaweed, or of dried bivalve molluscs3,0
3.3Mercury
3.3.1Fishery products and muscle meat of fish, excluding species listed in 3.3.2. The maximum level for crustaceans applies to muscle meat from appendages and abdomen. In case of crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura) it applies to muscle meat from appendages.0,50
3.3.2Muscle meat of the following fish:anglerfish (Lophius species)Atlantic catfish (Anarhichas lupus)bonito (Sarda sarda)eel (Anguilla species)emperor, orange roughy, rosy soldierfish (Hoplostethus species)grenadier (Coryphaenoides rupestris)halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus)kingklip (Genypterus capensis)marlin (Makaira species)megrim (Lepidorhombus species)mullet (Mullus species)pink cusk eel (Genypterus blacodes)pike (Esox lucius)plain bonito (Orcynopsis unicolor)poor cod (Tricopterus minutes)Portuguese dogfish (Centroscymnus coelolepis)rays (Raja species)redfish (Sebastes marinus, S. mentella, S. viviparus)sail fish (Istiophorus platypterus)scabbard fish (Lepidopus caudatus, Aphanopus carbo)seabream, pandora (Pagellus species)shark (all species)snake mackerel or butterfish (Lepidocybium flavobrunneum, Ruvettus pretiosus, Gempylus serpens)sturgeon (Acipenser species)swordfish (Xiphias gladius)tuna (Thunnus species, Euthynnus species, Katsuwonus pelamis)1,0
3.3.3Food supplements0,10
3.4Tin (inorganic)
3.4.1Canned foods other than beverages200
3.4.2Canned beverages, including fruit juices and vegetable juices100
3.4.3Canned baby foods and processed cereal-based foods for infants and young children, excluding dried and powdered products50
3.4.4Canned infant formulae and follow-on formulae (including infant milk and follow-on milk), excluding dried and powdered products50
3.4.5Canned dietary foods for special medical purposes intended specifically for infants, excluding dried and powdered products50
3.5Arsenic (inorganic)
3.5.1Non-parboiled milled rice (polished or white rice)0,20
3.5.2Parboiled rice and husked rice0,25
3.5.3Rice waffles, rice wafers, rice crackers and rice cakes0,30
3.5.4Rice destined for the production of food for infants and young children0,10
Section 4:3-monochloropropanediol (3-MCPD) and glycidyl fatty acid esters
FoodstuffsMaximum level(μg/kg)
4.13-monochloropropanediol (3-MCPD)
4.1.1Hydrolysed vegetable protein20
4.1.2Soy sauce20
4.2Glycidyl fatty acid esters expressed as glycidol
4.2.1.Vegetable oils and fats placed on the market for the final consumer or for use as an ingredient in food with the exception of the foods referred to in 4.2.21000
4.2.2.Vegetable oils and fats destined for the production of baby food and processed cereal-based food for infants and young children500
4.2.3Infant formula, follow-on formula and foods for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (powder)75 until 30.6.201950 as from 1.7.2019
4.2.4Infant formula, follow-on formula and foods for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children (liquid)10,0 until 30.6.20196,0 as from 1.7.2019
Section 5:Dioxins and PCBs
FoodstuffsMaximum levels
Sum of dioxins (WHO-PCDD/F-TEQ)Sum of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBS (WHO-PCDD/F-PCB-TEQ)Sum of PCB28, PCB52, PCB101, PCB138, PCB153 and PCB180 (ICES – 6)
5.1Meat and meat products (excluding edible offal) of the following animals:
—bovine animals and sheep2,5 pg/g fat4,0 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
—poultry1,75 pg/g fat3,0 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
—pigs1,0 pg/g fat1,25 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
5.2Liver of terrestrial animals referred to in 5.1 with the exception of sheep and derived products thereof0,30 pg/g wet weight0,50 pg/g wet weight3,0 ng/g wet weight
Liver of sheep and derived products thereof1,25 pg/g wet weight2,00 pg/g wet weight3,0 ng/g wet weight
5.3Muscle meat of fish and fishery products and products thereof , with the exemption of:wild caught eelwild caught spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias)wild caught fresh water fish, with the exception of diadromous fish species caught in fresh waterfish liver and derived productsmarine oilsThe maximum level for crustaceans applies to muscle meat from appendages and abdomen. In case of crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura) it applies to muscle meat from appendages.3,5 pg/g wet weight6,5 pg/g wet weight75 ng/g wet weight
5.4Muscle meat of wild caught fresh water fish, with the exception of diadromous fish species caught in fresh water, and products thereof3,5 pg/g wet weight6,5 pg/g wet weight125 ng/g wet weight
5.4aMuscle meat of wild caught spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) and products thereof3,5 pg/g wet weight6,5 pg/g wet weight200 ng/g wet weight
5.5Muscle meat of wild caught eel (Anguilla anguilla) and products thereof3,5 pg/g wet weight10,0 pg/g wet weight300 ng/g wet weight
5.6Fish liver and derived products thereof with the exception of marine oils referred to in point 5.7—20,0 pg/g wet weight200 ng/g wet weight
5.7Marine oils (fish body oil, fish liver oil and oils of other marine organisms intended for human consumption)1,75 pg/g fat6,0 pg/g fat200 ng/g fat
5.8Raw milk and dairy products, including butter fat2,5 pg/g fat5,5 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
5.9Hen eggs and egg products2,5 pg/g fat5,0 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
5.10Fat of the following animals:
—bovine animals and sheep2,5 pg/g fat4,0 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
—poultry1,75 pg/g fat3,0 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
—pigs1,0 pg/g fat1,25 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
5.11Mixed animal fats1,5 pg/g fat2,50 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
5.12Vegetable oils and fats0,75 pg/g fat1,25 pg/g fat40 ng/g fat
5.13Foods for infants and young children0,1 pg/g wet weight0,2 pg/g wet weight1,0 ng/g wet weight
Section 6:Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
FoodstuffsMaximum levels (μg/kg)
6.1Benzo(a)pyrene, benz(a)anthracene, benzo(b)fluoranthene and chryseneBenzo(a)pyreneSum of benzo(a)pyrene, benz(a)anthracene, benzo(b)fluoranthene and chrysene
6.1.1Oils and fats (excluding cocoa butter and coconut oil) intended for direct human consumption or use as an ingredient in food2,010,0
6.1.2Cocoa beans and derived products with the exception of the products referred to in point 6.1.115,0 μg/kg fat as from 1.4.201335,0 μg/kg fat as from 1.4.2013 until 31.3.201530,0 μg/kg fat as from 1.4.2015
6.1.3Coconut oil intended for direct human consumption or use as an ingredient in food2,020,0
6.1.4Smoked meat and smoked meat products5,0 until 31.8.20142,0 as from 1.9.201430,0 as from 1.9.2012 until 31.8.201412,0 as from 1.9.2014
6.1.5Muscle meat of smoked fish and smoked fishery products , excluding fishery products listed in points 6.1.6 and 6.1.7. The maximum level for smoked crustaceans applies to muscle meat from appendages and abdomen . In case of smoked crabs and crab-like crustaceans (Brachyura and Anomura) it applies to muscle meat from appendages.5,0 until 31.8.20142,0 as from 1.9.201430,0 as from 1.9.2012 until 31.8.201412,0 as from 1.9.2014
6.1.6Smoked 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 (fresh, chilled or frozen); heat treated meat and heat treated meat products sold to the final consumer5,030,0
6.1.7Bivalve molluscs (smoked)6,035,0
6.1.8Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children 1,01,0
6.1.9Infant formulae and follow-on formulae, including infant milk and follow-on milk1,01,0
6.1.10Dietary foods for special medical purposes intended specifically for infants1,01,0
6.1.11Cocoa fibre and products derived from cocoa fibre, intended for use as an ingredient in food3,015,0
6.1.12Banana chips2,020,0
6.1.13Food supplements containing botanicals and their preparationsFood supplements containing propolis, royal jelly, spirulina or their preparations10,050,0
6.1.14Dried herbs10,050,0
6.1.15Dried spices with the exception of cardamon and smoked Capsicum spp.10,050,0
Section 7:Melamine and its structural analogues
FoodstuffsMaximum levels(mg/kg)
7.1.Melamine
7.1.1.Food with the exception of infant formulae and follow-on formulae2,5
7.1.2.Powdered infant formulae and follow-on formulae1
Section 8:Inherent plant toxins
FoodstuffsMaximum levels (g/kg)
8.1Erucic acid
8.1.1Vegetable oils and fats50
8.1.2Foods containing added vegetable oils and fats with the exception of the foods referred to in 8.1.350
8.1.3Infant formulae and follow-on formulae10
FoodstuffsMaximum level (μg/kg)
8.2Tropane alkaloids
AtropineScopolamine
8.2.1Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children, containing millet, sorghum, buckwheat or their derived products1,0 μg/kg1,0 μg/kg
8.3Hydrocyanic acid, including hydrocyanic acid bound in cyanogenic glycosides
8.3.1Unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked, chopped apricot kernels placed on the market for the final consumer20,0
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