20/04/2010

The European Food Safety Authority’s expert Panel on contaminants (CONTAM Panel) has published a scientific opinion on possible health risks related to the presence of lead in food. The opinion concludes that current levels of exposure to lead pose a low to negligible health risk for most adults but there is potential concern over possible neurodevelopmental effects in young children.

Lead is an environmental contaminant which occurs both naturally and as a result of human activities such as mining. Measures have been taken to regulate levels of lead in petrol, paint, food cans and pipes in Europe since the 1970s, and these have had a considerable effect in reducing exposure. Nevertheless, some concern remains due to the fact that lead can enter the food chain.

The CONTAM Panel considered cereals, vegetables and tap water to contribute most to dietary exposure to lead. Non-dietary exposure to lead was considered to be of minor importance to adults, although house dust and soil can be important sources of exposure for children.

The Panel identified reduced intelligence quotient (IQ) levels in young children, and high blood pressure in adults, as the key health effects on which to base its assessment. Following a review of the available data, the Panel considered that the provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) was no longer appropriate. A new guidance level could not be established, as there was no clear threshold below which the Panel was confident that adverse effects would not occur.

According to the report (p. 27 of the scientific opinion), Spain ranked 5th in terms of the number of lead content analysis results that were sent in response to EFSA’s request. This data came from regional governments, other competent authorities and from the sector.

More information