Perchlorate in food: EFSA seeks public input on draft scientific opinion

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has initiated a public consultation on its latest draft scientific opinion concerning the potential health risks associated with perchlorate in food. This consultation is a response to a request from the European Commission to re-evaluate perchlorate's health implications, incorporating updated methodologies and new evidence since EFSA's previous assessment in 2014.  

One significant update in this draft is the proposed increase in the acceptable daily intake (ADI) for perchlorate, raising it from 0.3 to 1.4 micrograms per kilogram of body weight per day. This adjustment is based on a new assessment model that offers enhanced precision in evaluating how different doses of perchlorate affect individual health.  

Perchlorate is a contaminant often introduced into the environment through agricultural practices such as fertilizer application. When used on crops, particularly leafy greens like spinach and lettuce, perchlorate can accumulate in the plants, leading to potential exposure through consumption.  

Perchlorate is primarily known for its detrimental effects on thyroid function. It can inhibit the thyroid gland's ability to absorb iodine, a critical element for the production of thyroid hormones. These hormones are particularly vital for the growth and neurological development of fetuses and newborns. Despite the concerns, EFSA experts have provisionally concluded that current exposure levels do not pose a health risk to the general population.  

The public consultation is designed to encourage stakeholder engagement and will be open for comments for eight weeks, concluding on February 11, 2025. This period allows various stakeholders, including health professionals, industry representatives, and the general public, to provide feedback on the draft opinion.  

Recognizing the risks associated with perchlorate, the European Commission took steps in 2015 to recommend controlling its levels in food and water. This was followed by a regulation introduced in 2023 that established maximum allowable limits for perchlorate and other contaminants within the food supply chain. For instance, the regulation sets a maximum limit of 0.05 mg/kg of perchlorate for most fruits and vegetables, with stricter thresholds applied to baby foods and infant products.

As EFSA moves forward with this consultation, the insights gathered will play a crucial role in shaping future regulations regarding perchlorate and ensuring the safety of food consumed across Europe. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate actively in this dialogue, helping to inform public health policies that protect consumers and maintain food safety standards.    

Source:  

EFSA