CS0301: Investigation into the presence of dioxins, furans and PCBs in feed binders and associated pre-mixes and feeds
Friday 8 October 2004
This research project aims to investigate the levels of dioxins, furans and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in feed binders and associated pre-mixtures used in animal feeds.
Background
In 1999, a case of animal feedingstuff contamination was highlighted in Austria. The source of contamination was traced to kaolinitic clay binders imported from Germany. It was suggested that the clays could have been "naturally" contaminated during their formation and the European Commission requested information from all Member States to assess levels of these contaminants.
This investigation - part of an EU-wide programme - examined the levels of dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in certain binders, anti-caking agents and coagulants used in animal feeds in the UK. These additives are authorised for use in animal feed in the EU and, where used, represent about 2% of the feed by weight. The samples included raw materials used for the manufacture of feed additives as well as pre-mixtures and compound feeds. Results from this work were reported back to the European Commission.
Research Approach
The information requested by the European Commission included identification of sites/quarries where the substances are mined or produced and the volumes mined/produced per site per year. Suitable samples were collected and analysed for these contaminants. The information from the investigation was used to inform a limit for other binders, etc and a definitive dioxin level limit for kaolinitic clays.
Results and findings
This investigation - part of an EU-wide programme - examined the levels of dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in certain binders, anti-caking agents and coagulants used in animal feeds. These additives are authorised for use in animal feed in the European Community and, where used, represent about 2% of the feed by weight. The samples included raw materials used for the manufacture of feed additives as well as pre-mixtures and compound feedingstuffs.
A provisional limit of 0.5 nanogram (ng) WHO-TEQ/kg dry matter (upper bound) has been set by the EU as a provisional maximum limit for dioxins in kaolinitic clays pending a full risk assessment. This limit is to be raised to 0.75 ng WHO-TEQ/kg dry matter. Thus, the current provisional limit (which is likely to be extended to certain other feed binders, anti-caking agents and coagulants) is based on a limit of determination, rather than one derived from an assessment of any possible risk to human health.
Approximately 32% of the samples contained dioxin levels above the provisional limit set by the EU, the highest level reported for a raw material sample being 11 ng WHO-TEQ/kg dry matter. Other raw materials contained dioxin levels between 8 and 0.15 ng WHO-TEQ/kg (dry matter, upper bound). The feed industry now source material that complies with the limit.
Dissemination information
Final report is available from the FSA Library and Information centre. To obtain a copy, please contact the Enquiry Desk,
Dr Elsie Widdowson Library and Information Services, Food Standards Agency, tel: 020 7276 8181/8182 or email: library&info@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk
Contact: For any enquiries concerning this research project, please contact the relevant Programme contact or email science@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk