With the new Regulation (EU) 2020/685, perchlorate is now included in the Contaminants Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006. Perchlorate is considered a contaminant that can enter the product e.g. via groundwater, irrigation water, certain fertilizers, or the water used in production. Perchlorate can negatively affect human health by inhibiting iodine intake. Maximum levels have been set for the following product groups: fruit and vegetables, tea, herbal and fruit infusions, and certain baby foods. For fruit and vegetables, the maximum levels apply to the edible part.

Agricultural associations expect an average to good fruit harvest this year. Especially in the organic segment, growing yields are expected this year. Together with the current designation of GBA Group as an official laboratory for organic inspection bodies under Art. 37 of Regulation (EU) 2017/625, GBA Group is your competent partner for accredited inspection of your agricultural products.

In a podcast from Fruchthandel magazine, our Head of Sales at GBA Group, Dr. Markus Zell, provides insights into the current situation of laboratories in the corona crisis.

Protection against food counterfeiting is a challenge in the current situation.

Due to deviations in the routine of global supply chains and official monitoring, there is an increased risk of food fraud.

How can you ensure protection against fraud, safety and integrity of your food?

Hygiene measures - In each operation, the staff has now been trained to wash their hands and disinfect regularly. Disinfection is possible at various points in the respective facilities and has become a basic requirement.

The topic of hygiene will certainly remain a central issue. In general, there is currently an increased use of disinfectants. For this reason, food producers in particular should use an appropriate HACCP concept to prevent the possible risks of product contamination. It is therefore particularly important for food producers to deal with this issue in a timely and sustainable manner.