EFSA Seeks Public Comment on Food Safety Risk of Petroleum-Derived Chemicals
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a draft scientific opinion that updates the risk assessment of mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH) in food. The agency is inviting stakeholders to provide their input on the draft.
MOH comprise a wide range of chemical compounds obtained mainly from petroleum distillation and refining. They are categorized into two main groups: mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH). EFSA provisionally concluded that MOSH do not pose a health concern, however, some MOAH substances may potentially be harmful to human health.