Maximum levels set for opium alkaloids in certain foodstuffs

poppy seeds

Regulation (EU) 2021/2142 introduces maximum levels for the opium alkaloids morphine and codeine for poppy seeds and those containing poppy seeds.

 

Poppy seeds are obtained from Papaver somniferum L. The poppy plant contains opium alkaloids, but not in the seeds. However, the poppy seeds can be contaminated with the alkaloids during harvesting via adhering dust particles from the poppy straw.

 

Source: COMMISSION REGULATION (EU) 2021/2142 of 3 December 2021 amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum residue levels for opium alkaloids in certain foodstuffs.

The residue definition of opium alkaloids comprises the sum of morphine + 0.2 x the codeine content. In B2B business, suppliers are obliged to provide the processor of the poppy seeds with information on the alkaloid content.

 

 

YOUR PLUS: We work with a German accredited partner laboratory for the determination of the opiate content in bakery products and poppy seeds, which has many years of expertise in this analysis.

 

 

 

Link: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE

 

 

 

Author: Dr. Frank Mörsberger