EU Rules Lacking as Contaminated Palm Oil is Withdrawn

Image Source: Gapki

The recent withdrawal of Nigerian Heritage palm oil from Malta’s supermarket shelves due to contamination with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons has reignited concerns about machine lubricants seeping into edible oils during processing. This issue isn’t new, as in 2019, African palm oil from Ghana was withdrawn for similar reasons. The problem lies in the lubricants used in machinery that processes palm fruit into oil, which can come into contact with the product. These hydrocarbons are linked to burning coal, oil, and gasoline and are known to be carcinogenic.

The palm oil industry faces pressure from European food companies to reduce mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOAH) in palm oil, which is also found in vegetable oils like soy and sunflower. However, transitioning to food-grade lubricants, which are eight to 10 times more expensive than petroleum-based or synthetic counterparts, hurts profit margins.

The European Food Safety Authority flagged MOAH as a potential health concern in 2012, and the latest research suggests one type may contain genotoxic substances that can damage DNA in cells and cause cancer. Despite this, there are no European regulations on mineral oil hydrocarbons in food, except for monitoring their presence. This lack of regulation raises concerns about the safety of various food products, including rice, pasta, cereals, and chocolate, which can be contaminated with MOAH through packaging materials, additives, or storage.

By 2030, EU rules will phase out palm oil from renewable fuel due to deforestation concerns. However, regulations protecting consumers from mineral oil in food are still lacking. Foodwatch, a Berlin-based watchdog, urges stricter regulations to ensure safe food for consumers. The organization emphasizes that MOAH can contaminate food at any stage of processing, highlighting the need for comprehensive measures to safeguard public health.

The palm oil industry’s environmental and health impacts remain a pressing concern. With no immediate solution in sight, consumers are left to navigate the complex landscape of food safety, hoping that regulatory changes will eventually prioritize their well-being over profit margins.