Total copper intakes below new safe level

Combined exposure to copper from all sources does not pose health concerns for the EU population, say EFSA’s scientific experts.

Excessive copper retention in the body over time could be toxic for humans, especially to the liver. EFSA’s Scientific Committee has concluded that no retention of copper is expected to occur with an intake of up to 5 mg per day and established an acceptable daily intake (safe level) of 0.07 milligrams per kilogram of body weight for the adult population. The nutrition experts will establish acceptable intakes for younger age groups as a follow-up.

For the first time with this substance, the experts estimated exposure to copper from all dietary and non-dietary sources. Naturally occurring background levels of copper in food and food ingredients and long-term use of copper utensils and copper pipes are significant contributors to intake. However, the contribution of pesticides, food and feed additives, or fertilisers is negligible..

Efsa.europe.eu