Samples of raw milk, chicken breast and thigh, beef, liver of chicken and cattle liver were delivered to BfR within 6 batches from March 2023 until February 2024.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), Dioxin and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) analysis:

All beef liver samples were systematically pooled prior to analysis. Of a total of 190 pooled beef liver samples, 86 were sent to an external testing laboratory for analysis of dioxins/PCBs. The samples did not exceed the maximum levels for dioxins/PCBs. Detailed data analysis is in progress.

All 190 samples of pooled beef liver and chicken liver were analysed for PFAS. In these samples, the maximum levels for PFAS were not exceeded. PFAS analysis was recently finished in the end of May 2024. We are now heading toward the data transfer to share our results.

Vitamin analysis:

Vitamin analysis (vitamin A, vitamin D and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3), including sample preparation and homogenization, is carried out by an external contract laboratory. A total of 103 beef pool samples, 91 poultry samples (breast) and 62 poultry samples (thighs) are contractually agreed and will be analysed by this external contract laboratory starting in May. The results of the vitamin analysis are expected to be transmitted within 20 weeks of receiving the complete sample amount.

Mycotoxin, plant toxin analysis:

More than 150 raw milk samples collected in summer and winter seasons from farms in 5 European countries are being analyzed for tens of mycotoxins (fungal toxins) and plant toxins at BfR in Germany. Currently, only aflatoxin M1 is regulated (has a maximum level) by the European Union in raw milk, heat-treated milk and milk for the manufacture of milk-based products. Besides aflatoxin M1, the scope of the analytical method extends to include a broad spectrum of toxins that vary in their physical and chemical properties.