The presence of ethylene oxide has been identified in a range of food products in different countries within the EU. Ethylene oxide is often used as a disinfectant and sterilization in various markets. The ECHA classifies this substance as Carcinogenic, Mutagenic and Toxic to Reproduction, and its uses within the EU are limited to sterilization of single-use medical equipment.
Second ethylene oxide alert in the EU in 9 months
The EU Food Safety Commission, through the Food and Feed Crisis Coordinators had already identified the presence of this active ingredient in sesame seeds from India back in October 2020. A new alert was activated in June 2021, due to the presence of ethylene oxide in ice creams and biscuits. Just in France, a total of 7,491 products have been recalled from some of the most important retailers in the country due to this alert.
Homologa®, the crop protection products and pesticide data solution
Homologa® offers up-to-date information about all products in the global market containing ethylene oxide including registration and expiration dates as well as uses and MRLs. In addition, you can also access the original labels, security sheet information and even external reference values such as ADI and ARfD.
Please visit Homologa® or contact us for further information.