EFSA Seeks More Data on Furan Formation

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is urging member states to increase the monitoring of carcinogen furan in food products.

The data will help the federal agency to maintain a dietary risk assessment level of the compound, which has been found to be carcinogenic in animal studies.

The compound is found during the heat-treatment of food products, which contributes to the taste and smell of prepared food items.

In 2004 higher levels of the component were detected in tinned and canned foods.

The data released by the EFSA show furan occurs in a variety of heat-treated foods including coffee, canned products and jarred baby food.

The EFSA said the reduction of furan formation is difficult compared to other process contaminants such as acrylamide, since the process is associated with the taste and smell of foods.