BAC and DDAC - Phytocontrol

What are BACs and DDACs?

Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) and didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC) are molecules with very interesting surface-active properties, which is why they are frequently used in cleaning in the food industry. Their excellent disinfectant properties also give them an even wider field of use in the food and dairy production sector in particular, although the BAC molecule is not authorised for use in the food industry. Quaternary ammonium molecules can also be used in the agricultural sector, particularly on crops or for disinfecting premises.

Which products are concerned?

Vegetables

Fruit trees

The vine

Cereals

Regulations

BAC is an active substance that has never been approved in Europe.
DDAC was approved in Europe on 1 January 2010 but only for use on ornamental crops. Its authorisation expired on 20 June 2013.
As a result and initially, no MRLs were set on two compounds.
In 2012, industry operators have reported to the Commission, the presence of BAC and DDAC in foodstuffs at concentrations exceeding the default MRL of 0.01 mg/kg set by Regulation (EC) No 396/2005.
Both substances are also biocides used as disinfectants for surfaces in contact with food. This use pattern may leave detectable residues in food.
In this context, the Commission has set temporary MRLs on the basis of the available monitoring data and the reasoned opinion of EFSA. These MRLs are laid down in Regulation (EU)1119/2014 amending Regulation (EU) 396/2005.

The Phytocontrol solution

Phytocontrol, expert in pesticide analysis, adapts to your needs and offers you the analysis of BAC and DDAC by LC-MS/MS at quantification limits of 5 ppb.

The laboratory offers you the analysis of these two molecules since 2015.

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Why choose Phytocontrol

Phytocontrol is a technological and human project that meets the societal challenges of water and food safety with proximity, expertise, reactivity and reliability. The Laboratory provides you with the most reliable, innovative and eco-responsible solutions to guarantee you the best European expertise. A step ahead in technology, Phytocontrol develops its own Information System via a latest-generation Datacenter and innovates with its own system for tracking the sample's progress. Anticipation is Phytocontrol's credo and it is its intention to stay ahead!