Hydrocarbon contamination found in olive oil samples

Recent testing of 16 olive oil samples, including 15 extra virgin varieties, has revealed concerning levels of hydrocarbon contaminants. Specifically, 5 out of 16 samples exceeded the recommended threshold for Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons Aromatic (Moah), which are suspected to possess carcinogenic, genotoxic, and mutagenic properties. Additionally, 11 samples exceeded the German guideline value for Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons Saturated (Mosh) of 13 mg/kg.

While the tested oils remain compliant with current laws, the European Union is moving to establish formal legal limits. A compromise reached by member states suggests that a legal limit for Moah in olive oil will be set at 4 mg/kg, effective March 1, 2027. This threshold is higher than the 2 mg/kg guideline established by the Commission in 2022. A reduction to the 2 mg/kg level is not expected until January 1, 2028.

Among the brands tested were Bertolli, Carapelli, Carrefour, CIRIO, Coricelli, Coop, Conad, Costa d’Oro, De Cecco, Esselunga, Eurospin, Farchioni, Lidl, Monini, Sagra, and Sasso. The findings highlight a gap between current safety recommendations and upcoming regulatory frameworks.