NVWA takes a broader view of biocides in food

Biocides are indispensable in the food chain, but they can sometimes leave traces behind. These residues in meat and dairy are now receiving increased attention. The NVWA wants a clearer picture of which substances remain and what this means for public health. A new RIVM report takes the first steps in that direction and looks beyond raw products alone.

Use of biocides in meat and dairy

Biocides are used for disinfection and pest control. They are needed, among other things, in livestock farming and in the safe storage and processing of food. Examples include disinfecting stables and work areas in slaughterhouses, or controlling mice and cockroaches in storage facilities. These products contain active substances whose residues can remain in food.

The NVWA currently measures a limited number of these substances. This mainly takes place in unprocessed products, such as raw meat and milk. Because many different biocides are in use, there is a need for a more targeted approach.

Method to prioritize substances

RIVM has developed a method to determine which substances should preferably be measured first. This involved assessing all active substances from biocides that could potentially end up in meat and dairy products. The method uses information on biocide use, available measurement data, and knowledge about possible health effects.

RIVM also recommends measuring processed and composite food products. During the processing of raw products into food, biocides are also used, for example to disinfect machinery.

Uncertainty about maximum residue limits

For some active substances from biocides, maximum residue limits, known as MRLs, do not yet exist. For other substances, such limits are already in place because they are also used as agricultural pesticides or veterinary medicines. In those cases, potential exposure through the use of biocides has not yet been taken into account.

It is not yet clear how residue limits for biocides should be established. A specific methodology for biocides is still lacking, and the division of roles among European regulatory authorities has not been defined. RIVM advises that clarity on these issues is needed.

Rivm.nl