Regulation N°2022/1396: Ethylene oxide limits for food additives

Following the numerous food scares concerning the detection of Ethylene Oxide over the last two years and its detection in food additives, Regulation (EU) N° 2022/1396 has just been published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

It amends the Annex of Regulation (EU) No 231/2012 laying down specifications for food additives listed in Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, as regards the presence of ethylene oxide in food additives.

As a reminder, ethylene oxide is classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, and toxic for reproduction under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. It is neither approved as a biocidal product nor as an active substance for use in plant protection products.

In order to ensure consumer safety, it is appropriate to ensure the prohibition of ethylene oxide, irrespective of its origin, in all food additives.

The maximum level applicable has been set at the limit of quantification in these products.

The Annex to Regulation (EU) No 231/2012 is amended as follows:

"Ethylene oxide may not be used for sterilisation in food additives.

No ethylene oxide residue (sum of ethylene oxide and 2-chloroethanol, expressed as ethylene oxide (*)) greater than 0,1 mg/kg, whatever its origin, may be present in food additives listed in Annexes II and III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, including mixtures of food additives.

(*) Namely ethylene oxide + 0.55* 2-chloro-ethanol."

Your Phytocontrol laboratory offers you the analysis of ethylene oxide and its metabolite 2-Chloroethanol, by GC-MS/MS, under COFRAC accreditation. You can consult our COFRAC technical appendix N°1-1904 available in your customer area or on the COFRAC website.

Need technical, regulatory and pricing information? Our customer service is available from 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday on 0 800 900 775 or service-clients@phytocontrol.com

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