The European Union has proposed new regulatory limits for mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in a broad range of food products in an effort to strengthen consumer protection against potential health risks. On 11 March 2026, the EU notified a draft regulation through the WTO to amend Regulation (EU) 2023/915, establishing specific maximum levels for MOAH in multiple food categories.
The proposal follows updated risk assessments conducted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which highlighted concerns about the genotoxic and carcinogenic potential of certain MOAH compounds. The draft regulation sets maximum limits across a wide range of foodstuffs, including milk and dairy products, infant formula and foods for infants and young children, cereals and cereal-based products, vegetable oils and fats, cocoa and chocolate products, spices, dried herbs, tea and herbal infusions, food additives, and food supplements.
For food supplements, the regulation proposes a maximum level of 10 mg/kg starting from 1 January 2027, which will be further reduced to 5 mg/kg from 1 January 2030, allowing a phased transition for the sector to adapt to stricter contamination controls.
The draft measure is currently open for public comments until 10 May 2026, and if adopted, it is scheduled to apply from 1 January 2027. The regulation aims to harmonize control measures across the EU food chain and ensure a high level of human health protection.
Food business operators will be required to strengthen monitoring, contamination prevention, and mitigation strategies throughout the supply chain, including raw materials, processing operations, and food contact materials. Companies may need to update analytical testing programs and review sourcing and manufacturing practices to ensure compliance with the new limits and transition timelines.
Consumer News Region