The aim of this targeted campaign was to obtain an overview of the composition and levels of contaminants – such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), mycotoxins, pesticides and heavy metals – in cereal-based weaning foods, biscuits and rusks. In addition, the aim was to assess the national usage of additives and flavourings in the samples taken, as well as their microbiological status.
46 samples from across Austria were analysed. 12 samples were found to be non-compliant in some cases on multiple occasions:
- six samples due to labelling deficiencies
- one sample due to its composition
- three samples did not comply with the Regulation on nutrition and health claims (EC) No 1924/2006
- three samples did not comply with the Food Information Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011
- one sample due to labelling deficiencies for organic products
- one sample due to a pesticide residue (phosphonic acid) exceeding the limit
No exceedances of limit values were found for contaminants (PAHs); for the most part, PAHs were only detectable in trace amounts. Heavy metal levels were below the statutory maximum limits in all cases.
Mycotoxins were predominantly not detectable. The microbiological status was unremarkable.