- Microbiology
Other contaminants: PAHs, acrylamide and PFAS
Analysis of other contaminants: PAHs, acrylamide and PFAS in foods
Ensure the food safety and legal compliance of your products
Control of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and acrylamide in foods
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of more than 100 chemical compounds generated during the incomplete combustion of organic matter such as coal, oil, gasoline, waste, tobacco or grilled meat. Their presence in food may result from environmental contamination (industrial activities, heating systems, forest fires) as well as from smoking, drying or heating processes carried out both in industry and at household level.
European legislation sets maximum limits for PAHs in different food categories, and products exceeding these values cannot be marketed or used as ingredients.
Acrylamide, in turn, is a compound formed in starchy foods —such as potatoes and cereals— when they are fried, toasted or roasted. Classified as a “probable human carcinogen” (Group 2A, IARC), it is regulated by Regulation (EU) 2017/2158, which establishes codes of practice and benchmark levels. Although exceeding these levels does not prevent marketing, it does require operators to review and correct their manufacturing processes. In addition, authorities carry out regular official controls to ensure regulatory compliance.
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
Control of persistent contaminants and their impact on public health
PFAS include compounds such as PFOS, PFOA, PFNA and PFHxS, which have been used for decades in industrial applications (stain-resistant coatings for textiles, waterproofing agents for paper and cardboard in contact with food, among others). Their widespread use and high environmental persistence have led to widespread contamination, reaching food through bioaccumulation in the food chain and the use of PFAS-containing materials in packaging and processing.
Several studies have identified concerning levels of PFOS and PFOA in humans, with potential adverse health effects. In response, EFSA issued Recommendation 2022/1431 on the monitoring of these substances in food. Subsequently, Regulation (EU) 2023/915 established maximum limits for PFOA, PFOS, PFNA and PFHxS in animal-derived matrices such as meat, offal, fish and eggs.
At AINIA, we add value
- We offer PAH testing services in foods, as well as in feed, additives and films. Results are reported for 4 compounds and their sum in accordance with Regulation 915/2023: benzo(a)anthracene, chrysene, benzo(b)fluoranthene and benzo(a)pyrene.
- To address current regulations and recommendations, AINIA includes the analysis of the 4 currently regulated PFAS and also the 21 PFAS listed in the EFSA recommendation. Sample preparation and analysis for the determination of PFAS in food products are carried out in accordance with Implementing Regulation 2022/1428.
- We also provide these services in line with the specifications of European Pharmacopoeia methods.
- Accredited for the analysis of acrylamide in foods by liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry detection (LC-MS/MS).
Check accreditation at: ENAC accreditations – AINIA laboratories
HAPs
Our solutions include:
- Advice on selecting the substances and matrices to be monitored, or on optimising sampling frequency to achieve the best possible cost-benefit ratio
- Support in sample logistics management to ensure appropriate collection, handling, transport and reception conditions
- Carrying out analyses using the most appropriate techniques, combining high reliability criteria with costs and turnaround times adapted to our clients’ needs
- Issuing results through secure and accessible platforms based on modern information and communication technologies
- Advice for correct interpretation of the results obtained
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