Maximum residue levels for Chlorate and Perchlorate in food
Update on the evaluation of chlorate and perchlorate as undesirable substances in foodstuff
Dec 2025 (update). Since the publication of the relevant EU Regulation 2020, maximum residue levels for perchlorate and chlorate residues in foodstuffs have been applicable in accordance with Regulation (EU) 396/2005 and Regulation (EU) 2023/915. Previously, the evaluation for chlorate was done in a case-by-case analysis and for perchlorate only reference values were stipulated.
An update to the EFSA opinion on perchlorate from May 2025 found no potential health risk from dietary exposure to perchlorate at the established TDI of 1.4 µg/kg bw.
You can view the respective regulations here:
The ways in which chlorate and perchlorate enter food
Residues of perchlorate and chlorate can often be detected in a wide range of concentrations in foodstuff. Both substances are chlorine compounds that are undesirable in food due to their toxicological relevance. For perchlorate, mainly fruits, vegetables, tea, herbal infusions and infant food are affected.
Chlorate enters food mainly via chlorinated water, such as drinking water, washing water or irrigation water. It is also produced as a by-product of disinfection processes. Other sources include recirculation processes in greenhouses and contamination from previous herbicide use. Perchlorate originates partly from natural sources, such as sodium nitrate, and partly from human-made sources, such as fertilisers containing perchlorate, industrial applications (e.g. fireworks and rocket fuels) and contaminated irrigation water. Residues can also occur after cleaning or disinfection. Both substances are water-soluble and can therefore spread easily via waterways.
How we assist you in handling the maximum levels
The Eurofins laboratories for food and feed testing in Germany offer tests for all types of food with a single method for chlorate/perchlorate using LC-MS/MS.
Check whether you have already included chlorate and perchlorate in your QS monitoring plan. If not, we recommend having your products analysed by us on a representative sample basis to get an impression of the current residue situation.
Get in touch
Would you like to find out more about our testing solutions, or do you need tailored analytical support? Contact us today to get in touch with our experts.
Written by:
Johannes Jaschik
Eurofins Dr. Specht International GmbH