Methods of sampling and analysis for perfluoroalkyl in food
Published by AGRINFO on
EU sets detailed requirements for sampling and analysis for PFAS in foods
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1428 of 24 August 2022 laying down methods of sampling and analysis for the control of perfluoroalkyl substances in certain foodstuffs
Update
The EU is setting detailed requirements for methods of sampling and analysis for the control of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in certain foods.
Impacted Products
fish, game, free range and outdoor poultry; outdoor fruit and vegetables; animal feed
What is changing?
The Commission recommends that Member States investigate the causes of PFAS contamination in foodstuffs with high concentrations of PFAS. Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/1431 lists indicative levels beyond which to do so. The EU is setting detailed requirements for methods of sampling and analysis for the control of PFAS in certain foods.
Why?
To ensure that sampling of PFAS is reliable and consistent, the selected method of analysis needs to meet the specific performance criteria set out in Table 5 of Regulation 2022/1428.
Timeline
The Implementing Regulation was published on 24 August 2022.
Date of effect: 15 September 2022.
What are the major implications for exporting countries?
The presence of PFAS is likely to come under increasing EU scrutiny in the coming years. Sources of contamination can be wide-ranging. AGRINFO partners investigating the presence of PFAS in their food chain should take into account the sampling and testing recommendations set out by the Commission.
The validation of relevant analytical methods – in accordance with Article 34 of Regulation (EU) 2017/625 – is an important step in this process.
Recommended Actions
EU requirements for methods of sampling and analysis for control of PFAS will impact AGRINFO stakeholders who are building analytical capacity and gathering data on these substances to identify potential risks in the supply chain.
Background
Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915 sets out maximum levels for PFAS in certain foodstuffs. Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/1431 lists indicative levels beyond which the causes of PFAS contamination in foodstuffs with high PFAS concentrations should be investigated.
Detailed requirements for the sampling methods used and laboratory analyses for PFASs are now specified in the Annex to Implementing Regulation 2022/1428 to ensure the reliability and consistency of official controls.
Sources