Parma, 17 Decemeber 2024
EFSA is launching a public consultation on its draft scientific opinion concerning the public health risks associated with perchlorate in food. This work responds to a request from the European Commission to re-evaluate the risks, considering new data and an updated methodology that have become available since EFSA’s 2014 assessment.
As part of the review, experts have updated the tolerable daily intake (TDI) for perchlorate from 0.3 to 1.4 micrograms per kilogram of body weight per day. This change reflects the use of a recent model that provides greater precision in evaluating the effects of different doses of perchlorate on individuals.
The primary health concern associated with perchlorate is its impact on thyroid function. It can inhibit the uptake of iodine by the thyroid gland, which is crucial for hormone production. In foetuses and infants, thyroid hormones are critical for normal growth and development of the central nervous system.
Experts provisionally concluded that at current levels of exposure there are no health risks for the general population.
The consultation will run for 8 weeks to allow for maximum participation among interested parties. The deadline for sending comments is 11 February 2025.
What is perchlorate and how does it end up in food?
Perchlorate is a contaminant introduced into the environment through agricultural practices, for example through its use in fertilisers. It also results from industrial activities, such as fireworks manufacturing and recycling. When applied on crops, especially leafy greens like spinach and lettuce, perchlorate can accumulate in the plants.
Regulating perchlorate levels in food and water
In 2015 the European Commission issued a Recommendation to monitor perchlorate levels in food and water. Subsequently, a Regulation was introduced in 2023 that established maximum levels for perchlorate and other contaminants in the food chain. For example, a maximum level of 0.05 mg/kg of perchlorate was set for most fruits and vegetables, with stricter levels established for baby foods and infant formulae.
Source – EFSA