Inspections by the Estonian food regulatory body in 2024 uncovered pollutants in 7 assorted food items
In a recent monitoring programme, contaminants were discovered in several food items, including instant coffee, smoked meat products, and peanut butter extract.
The instant coffee product with an acrylamide exceedance value, manufactured in India, was produced by Nescafé. This finding is of concern as acrylamide, when consumed in excess, can have harmful effects on human health.
Contaminants formed during food production, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), were the highest number of non-compliances found in the analysis. PAHs are a group of chemicals that are carcinogenic and can have detrimental effects on human health.
Traditionally smoked meat products proved problematic, with non-compliances found in five out of 34 samples. Production and sales of products smoked in specific smokehouses were halted when limits for contaminants were exceeded, although the specific smokehouses were not specified.
One sample of peanut butter extract from China revealed an exceedance of the legal limit for the mycotoxin aflatoxin B1. This toxin, when consumed in large amounts, can cause liver damage and other health issues. The batch of peanut butter extract from China, which did not meet European Union requirements, was not allowed to be imported into the EU and did not reach consumers.
It's important to note that not all samples of smoked meat products, instant coffee, or peanut butter extract showed non-compliances. The Agriculture and Food Board conducts annual monitoring of contaminants that may occur in food to ensure the safety of the food supply.
Food contaminants are divided into four categories: environmental contaminants, naturally occurring toxic compounds, contaminants formed during food processing, and contaminants formed during food production. Understanding these categories can help in the prevention and control of contaminants in food.
In conclusion, the findings of this monitoring programme highlight the importance of monitoring food contaminants and taking necessary actions when limits are exceeded. Consumers can play a role in food safety by choosing products from reputable manufacturers and following safe food handling practices.
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