Published by SIPA
EFSA published an update to its the risk assessment of mineral oil hydrocarbons in food on 13 September 2023.
EFSA split the mineral oil hydrocarbons into two groups: mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH). Regarding MOSH, EFSA concluded that current dietary exposure does not raise any concern for human health. Regarding MOAH, EFSA reiterated its conclusion, made in 2012, on genotoxicity associated with the presence of some MOAH containing three or more rings. In addition, exposure to single ring and double ring MOAH ‘might raise a concern’.
Canned fish tends to have higher concentrations of mineral oil hydrocarbons. Although fish may contain mineral oils from from environmental contamination, it seems that the main source could be MOSH deriving from the lubrication oil used for can manufacturing.
EFSA’s Opinion is available here:
Update of the risk assessment of mineral oil hydrocarbons in food
