The investigation analyzed 142 samples representing 52 rice products. Notably, 17 products contained average inorganic arsenic concentrations of at least 100 parts per billion. Rice type significantly influenced average concentrations.
Incorporating a novel “bio-fumigation” method based on a natural compound produced by mustard plants, the micro-malting machine effectively addresses mycotoxins while preserving quality. USDA is working with industry to scale the prototype for widespread adoption.
In a recent research project, the fortification of rice grains with zinc oxide and magnesium oxide nanoparticles was shown to be effective in inhibiting Escherichia coli growth. The researchers believe that similar nanofortification techniques could be applicable across agriculture to enhance microbial food safety.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has updated the Mycotoxins in Domestic and Imported Human Foods Compliance Program to include T-2/HT-2 toxins and zearalenone, and to reflect the use of a new multi-mycotoxin method for analysis in human foods.
The European Commission recently made changes to the maximum levels of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) in food with Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/1022, amending Regulation (EU) 2023/915.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed to register new uses for the pesticide chlormequat chloride on food crops. If finalized, the decision would mark the first-ever approval for using chlormequat chloride on U.S. food. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has raised food safety concerns with EPA’s proposal.
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance's quality assurance plan, Identity Preserved, benefits global food manufacturers by meeting growing demand for transparency in the food production supply chain and by ensuring the origin, quality, consistency, and safety of food crops.
