EFSA to Maintain Current Acceptable Nitrite Levels in Meat

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) will keep the current acceptable nitrite level in meat to achieve the preservative and microbiological effect of the colour fixative.

The food authority’s decision follows Denmark request for the EFSA to reassess the acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels of nitrites, which is set as 0.07mg per kg body weight a day.

The EFSA and the Scientific Committee on Food were of the opinion that 50-100mg of nitrite per kilogram of meat is enough for most products, but those with a low salt content and long shelf-life may require up to 150mg/kg.

Denmark expressed concern whether the increased levels would cause Danish people to exceed the ADI and it questioned whether these nitrite levels are technologically necessary.

The panel said exposure to nutrosamines in food should be minimised.