American Peanut Exports Found to Exceed Aflatoxin Limits

On June 4, 2024, the Netherlands reported through the EU's Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) that peanuts exported from the United States were found to exceed the limits for aflatoxin contamination.

Specifically, the notifications stated:

• On June 4, 2024, the Netherlands reported through RASFF that a shipment of peanuts from the US had aflatoxin B1 at 65 μg/kg and total aflatoxins at 74 μg/kg, exceeding the EU's maximum level. The product had not yet been placed on the market and was officially detained.
• Also on June 4, 2024, the Netherlands reported through RASFF that another shipment of peanuts from the US had aflatoxin B1 at 19.9 μg/kg, again exceeding the EU limit of 2 μg/kg. This product had not been distributed.

Aflatoxins are a group of toxic compounds produced by certain mold fungi that can contaminate various agricultural commodities, including peanuts. Exposure to high levels of aflatoxins can pose serious health risks.

The Food Partners Network advises export companies to strictly follow the requirements of EU member states, pay close attention to the presence of mycotoxins in foods, ensure product safety, and avoid export risks. Compliance with regulations is crucial to maintain market access.

The EU's RASFF system plays an important role in quickly identifying and responding to food safety issues across borders. This case highlights the need for exporters to have robust quality control measures to meet regulatory standards in their target markets.