After an updated risk assessment on fluoride exposure in the EU, focusing especially on developmental neurotoxicity in children, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) revised the tolerable upper intake levels (ULs) for fluoride. EFSA concluded there is no major health risk considering the new ULs and current EU drinking water limits for fluoride.
Denmark has banned 23 pesticides containing six active ingredients known to break down into trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) that easily contaminates water and has been found in food products.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recently completed an assessment of estragole—a naturally occurring genotoxin and carcinogen—in fennel seed preparations, concluding that consumption of fennel seed preparations may be toxic to infants, children, and fetuses. EFSA is seeking public comment.
Switzerland has banned bisphenol A (BPA) and other hazardous bisphenols in food contact materials, but the regulation’s definition of hazardous BPAs is based on the chemicals’ molecular structure—notably leaving out some common, possibly harmful bisphenols like bisphenol M and bisphenol P.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reevaluated the safety of artificial sweetener acesulfame potassium (also known as acesulfame K, or additive E 950) for the first time since 2000, raising the acceptable daily intake. However, EFSA recommended lowering the maximum limits for lead and mercury in E 950.
As of July 1, 2025, new EU maximum levels for nickel—a heavy metal known to contaminate food, which can have acute and chronic health effects—went into effect for a range of foods. Additional limits for nickel in cereal will go into effect in July 2026.
The UK Food Standards Agency has established a safe upper limit for THC consumed in hemp-derived CBD foods and beverages of 0.07 milligrams per day, and is encouraging businesses to reformulate CBD products in light of the new THC recommendations.
The new definitions are designed to remove ambiguity and improve clarity and predictability while continuing to protect public health and safety, but some food industry sectors oppose the decision.
The executive summary includes global risk characterizations for parasite-food commodity combinations for Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, Giardia, Toxoplasma gondii, and other foodborne protozoan parasites.
Chinese lawmakers are reviewing a draft amendment to the Food Safety Law addressing key food safety issues and regulatory oversight of the country's food industry.
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