In addition, absorption via certain medicines or cosmetics is also possible. Of the orally supplied aluminum, only approx. 0.1-0.6% is absorbed in the intestine, then distributed in the body and excreted primarily via the kidneys. Aluminum does not perform an essential function in the body. Both human and animal studies have identified the nervous system as the primary target organ for toxic effects. Neurotoxic effects have been demonstrated particularly in occupational miners and in dialysis patients with reduced kidney function who received dialysis contaminated with aluminum. According to IARC, aluminum production via inhalation exposure is classified as carcinogenic in humans. A carcinogenic effect via oral exposure has not been proven to date and is considered unlikely. According to EFSA, most foods contain less than 5 mg of aluminum per kg. Due to their manufacturing practices, elevated levels have been repeatedly found in pretzel cookies. This circumstance has led to the adoption of a nationally valid action value for lye pastries of 10 mg/kg. Since 2010, AGES has tested several food groups, including lye pastries, pasta and children's foods for aluminum. The action value for lye pastries was met in more than 77% of the samples. Furthermore, an exposure assessment was carried out for infants up to 6 months of age, who are fed exclusively with starter foods. This shows that the TWI is not utilized. In addition, calculations were performed on the contribution of selected infant foods to the utilization of the TWI in infants and young children, which show that cereal-based complementary foods and ready-to-eat meals can make a significant contribution to the utilization of the TWI for aluminum. In addition, AGES conducted further studies on the aluminum content of food additives and cosmetics, such as antiperspirants, as well as on the migration behavior of some commodities, such as beverage cans and barbecue utensils with regard to aluminum.

HERZOG Katja, HOFSTÄDTER Daniela