PAHs
PAH testing
PAHs are environmental and process contaminants that can enter the food chain through drying, smoking, roasting or environmental exposure. Some PAHs are known carcinogens and are therefore strictly regulated. At Eurofins Food & Feed Testing, we help you identify and quantify PAHs with high precision.
Key services
- Quantitative analysis of PAH4 in food, feed and raw materials
- Additional scopes such as Benzo[a]pyrene, 16 EU-PAHs, 12 EPA-PAHs and 25 PAHs available
- Low limits of quantification (LOQ) for special matrices such as edible oils and baby food
- Validated methods using GC-MS/MS and LC-GC-MS in line with EU regulations
- Accredited testing according to ISO 17025
- Fast turnaround times
- Multilingual reporting
- Support in sampling strategies and monitoring plans
- Comparison against EU maximum levels and internal quality standards
- Specialised testing for smoke flavours and smoked, grilled and roasted products
Additional services
In addition to standard PAH analysis, Eurofins Food Testing UK offers a wide range of complementary services:
- Process evaluation to reduce PAH formation during drying, smoking or roasting
- Environmental testing of soil, air and packaging materials for PAH contamination
- Monitoring of edible oils and fats for multiple organic contaminants
- Customised method development for complex or novel food matrices
- Training and consulting for your quality and regulatory staff
Legal framework and guidelines*
- Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915 (Contaminants Regulation); applies in the EU and Northern Ireland (NI) only (not in Great Britain)
- Great Britain (GB) continues to apply the retained version of Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as the legal basis for maximum levels of contaminants in food
- Regulation (EC) No 2065/2003 (Smoke Flavourings in Food); applies in the EU and NI retained in GB law
- EFSA Scientific Opinion on PAHs in Food (2008)
* Regulatory information is provided for general guidance only and may not reflect the most recent regulatory changes. Always consult official sources for up‑to‑date legislation. For market‑specific support, please contact your local Eurofins Food Testing laboratory. Our specialists offer tailored support through horizon scanning and food safety consultancy services.
Get in touch
For small batches, order our most routine testing from Eurofins Testing Direct.
Would you like to find out more about our testing solutions, access our competence centre services, or do you need tailored analytical or consultancy support?
Contact Eurofins Food Testing UK today to speak to our experts by submitting an enquiry form or calling +44 (0) 845 604 6740.