Report on the Organic Monitoring Program of Baden-Württemberg 2017

The Federal State of Baden-Württemberg has been conducting a special monitoring program on organically produced foods since 2002. This monitoring is associated with Baden-Württemberg’s overall concept of promoting organic farming. Organic products are systematically tested for residues and contaminants, as well as other relevant issues. The goal of the organic monitoring program is to prevent fraud by better tracking down cases of improper labeling in this fast expanding market and to strengthen consumers’ confidence in the quality of organically produced foods.

 

Analytical Results from Organic Food Investigations

In an extended version of the organic monitoring report 2017 (published in German) the following issues were addressed:

 

  • Genetically modified organisms in maize, soy and honey: Hans-Ulrich Waiblinger, CVUA Freiburg
  • Origin and authenticity of milk and eggs (organic or conventional?): Dr. Eva Annweiler, CVUA Freiburg and Svenja Ackermann, CVUA Karlsruhe
  • Residues from pesticides and specific contaminants in plant-based-foods: Kathi Hacker, Silvia Zechmann and Ellen Scherbaum, CVUA Stuttgart
  • Superfood: Christiane Lerch, Kathi Hacker, Thomas Kapp, CVUA Stuttgart and Irene Straub, CVUA Karlsruhe

 

Following is a translation of the topics “Residues from pesticides and specific contaminants in plant-based-foods” and “Superfood”.

 

Cover image.

 

 

Residues from Pesticides and Specific Contaminants in Plant-Based Foods

In 2017 CVUA Stuttgart analyzed a total of 330 samples of plant-based foods from organic cultivation for residues of plant-protection substances and contaminants.

 

Fresh Foods

As in previous years, fresh organic fruit and vegetables performed significantly better in 2017 than conventionally produced products. There were no detectable pesticide residues in 50 % of the organically grown samples (in 2016, 65 %; 2015, 60 %; 2014, 52 %; 2013 and earlier: 60 to 70 %). The percentage of samples containing residues of multiple pesticides lie at 15 %, lower than that of the three previous years (in 2016, 19 %; 2015, 19 %; 2014, 21 %; 2013, 12 %; and 2012, 10 %).

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Detected residues were mostly in trace amounts (< 0.01 mg/kg), considerably lower than the concentrations that can be detected with the application of pesticide substances. All in all, the rate of violations in fresh, organically produced foods has stabilized at a low level over the last few years, and has dropped significantly since the beginning of the organic monitoring program more than 15 years ago. In 2017 one fruit sample (kiwi from Italy) and one vegetable sample (bell pepper from Spain) were judged to have been falsely labeled organic, due to the detection of high levels of pesticide residues. The rate of violations in this reporting year was 1.3 % (one of 77 samples) for organic fruit and 1.0 % (one of 96 samples) for organic vegetables. The rate of violations for all organic fresh foods lies therewith at 1.2 % for the reporting year of 2017.

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The rate of violations for fresh foods in the years from 2011 to 2016 was significantly lower than 5 %, whereas in the years before 2010 this rate was much higher, in some cases up to 8.5 %. In this reporting year, as in recent years, there was neither a large number of violations in fresh foods, nor other conspicuous findings in individual cultures. In the years before 2009 there were intermittent anomalies found: herbicides in broccoli and carrots from Italy, the fungicidal substance Fosetyl in cucumbers, surface treatment substances and acaricides in citrus fruits, and sprout inhibitors in potatoes.

Info Box

Expansion of the Investigative Spectrum and Evaluation of the Data

This year, as in the previous three years, the QuPPe method was routinely used on all samples in order to detect very polar substances that the QuEChERS multi-method cannot capture. Representatives of this group include, among others, fosetyl, phosphonic acid, chlorate and perchlorate.
The expansion of the investigative spectrum is responsible for the increase in samples found with residues and multiple-residues over the last few years.
To enable the comparison of investigative results for individual years in the future, only specifically chosen, purely chemical / synthetic pesticides, not contaminants, will be included in the evaluation.

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The following substances will be listed separately:

  • Substances authorized for use in organic farming: azadirachtin, piperonyl butoxide, pyrethrum, spinosad (see Excursus)
  • Nicotine: different modes of entry possible (see Info Box)
  • Trimethylsulfonium cation: different modes of entry possible
  • Fosetyl / phosphonic acid: found in fertilizers and fungicides, long retention time of phosphonic acid in plants / shrubs (see Info Box)
  • Chlorate, perchlorate: different modes of entry possible (see Info Box).

 

The following substances will not be considered:

  • Substances occuring naturally in plants: gibberellic acid and other plant hormones (abscisic acid, jasmonic acid,…)
  • Bromide: can originate geogenically; amounts < 5 mg/kg assessed as „natural“ amount

 

Processed Foods

The rate of violations (due to false organic labeling) among processed foods in this reporting year was 7.0 %, approx. six times higher than the rate for fresh fruit and vegetables (1.2 %). This rate lay between 2.6 % and 5.5 % over the past five years and >8 % in the years before 2011. However, one must consider that the focus on particular processed organic products changes from year to year and that short-term projects are carried out on this product group, which has only recently come into sharper focus. Therefore, the comparability of violation rates from year to year and over the entire course of the organic monitoring program is limited. Individual anomalies (in single food groups) among the processed foods analyzed in 2017 included moringa oleifera powdered tea, deep-frozen fruits, cereal products, legumes and spices. In contrast to 2016, there were no large number of violations (from false labeling) in a particular food category. Findings regarding tea (black and green), are referred to in the chapter „Special findings – trimethlysulfonium cation“. Last year the group of plant-based nutritional supplements „Superfoods“ was an extreme outlier, with a violation rate of >  50 %. In the meantime, however, the categorization of this product group has changed in accordance with Regulation (EC) No.  396/2005.

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When making a judgment regarding the amounts of residues in processed foods, valid processing factors for the specific substances must be considered, because the processing of the original product can lead to an increase or decrease of residues (see Info Box regarding processing factors).

 

Info Box

Consideration of Processing Factors

As a rule, Regulation (EC) No.  396/2005 stipulates the maximum levels of plant protection substance residues for unprocessed foods. The amount of pesticide residues in and on unprocessed foods can change as a result of processing factors, e.g. during the manufacturing of dried fruits, preserves, wine or bread. Guidelines provided by this regulation take into account changes in pesticide residues caused by such processing factors, and are thus to be followed when making a legal determination of residue amounts in processed foods. In a few cases it is impossible to make a final judgment because processing factors for certain substances or matrices are not always known. When there are low levels of substances in the product, there is also a greater degree of computational uncertainty.

 

Average Pesticide Amounts

Average pesticide amounts found in the samples can be an indication of the presence of plant protector substances, as the following tables show.

Average pesticide residues per sample (average summary amount of the detected pesticide residues per sample, in mg/kg)
Fruit
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Organically produced samples
0.007
0.008
0.005
0.002
0.001
0.002
Conventionally produced samples
(excluding surface treatment substances or preservatives, phosphonic acid and bromide)
0.52
0.32
0.42
0.35
0.43
0.45
Vegetables
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Organically produced samples
0.009
0.004
0.001
0.002
0.003
0.003
Conventionally produced samples
(excluding phosphonic acid and bromide)
0.40
0.38
0.32
0.49
0.46
0.36

 

The average amount of pesticide residues detected in all analyzed organic fruit and vegetable samples this reporting year was 0.002 and 0.003 mg/kg, respectively, when all organically labeled samples (including those with false labeling) are included in the calculation. Exclusion of the samples that were in violation, suspected of being conventionally produced or cross-bred with conventional products, yielded averages of 0.001 and 0.002 mg/kg respectively. These average sum amounts have remained low over the last years (see table above). In contrast, the averages for conventionally produced fruit and vegetables lay at 0.45 mg/kg (excluding surface treatment substances, phosphonic acid and bromide) and 0.36 mg/kg (excluding phoshonic acid and bromide), respectively. The reason for this higher amount of pesticide is due to the application of chemical plant protection substances that are authorized for conventional cultivation, the residues of which are often unavoidable in the treated plant cultures. A detailed body of regulations provides consumers with a measure of safety, as long as the maximum levels are not exceeded.

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Since the use of chemical pesticides is not permitted for organic cultivation, very few samples, if any, tend to have residues over 0.01 mg/kg. The organic products differ significantly from conventional ware in terms of contamination from pesticide residues, which the organic monitoring program has clearly demonstrated over the past 15 years.

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The following table gives an overview of all organic samples analyzed in 2017 for residues of pesticides and their rate of violations, itemized by food group.

 

Overview of organic samples analyzed in 2017
Type of Sample
No. of Samples
Samples w/ residues >  0.01
mg/kg 2)
Average amount per sample in mg/kg 2)
No. samples falsely labeled as „organic“
Samples over the ML3)
Vegetables 96 5
(5.2 %)
0.003 1
(1.0 %)
Bell pepper from Spain
(Flutriafol,
Phosphonic acid)
1
(1.0%)
Cucumber from Spain DDAC)
Vegetable products (incl. „superfoods“: Moringa Oleifera, Wheatgrass and Barley grass) 27 4
(14.8 %)
(fresh products)
0.085

0.017
(fresh products)
1
(3.7 %)
Moringa Oleifera (Cypermethrin, Permethrin, Thiodicarb) 6
(22.2 %)
6x Moringa Oleifera
(Cypermethrin, Nicotine, Permethrin, 3xAmetryn, 2xDEET, Bromide, Thiodicarb, 2xTrimethylsulfonium-cation)
Fruit 77 1
(1.3 %)
0.002 1
(1.3 %)
Kiwi from Italy (Iprodione, Phosphonic acid) -  
Fruit products 8 1
(12.5 %)
(fresh products)
0.012

0.005
(fresh products)
1
(12.5 %)
DF Raspberries from Serbia (Fenhexamid, Cyprodinil) 1
(12.5 %)
Dried Goji berries from China (Nicotine)
Fresh mushrooms and their products 41) 2 0.007 - - -  
Potatoes and their products 9 1
(11.1 %)
0.002 - - -  
Legumes (dried),
oil seeds, nuts,
soy products
37 1
(2.7 %)
0.002 1
(2.7 %)
Chick Peas from Egypt (Bromide) 2
(5.4 %)
Flaxseed from India (Nicotine);
Lentils from Italy (Sum Fosetyl)
Cereals 18 - 0.001 - - 1
(5.6 %)
Amaranth from India (Nicotine)
Cereal products 23 1
(4.3 %)
0.004 1
(4.3 %)
Millet, whole grain from Germany (Glyphosate) -  
Fats, oils 31) - 0.001 - - -  
Spices 41) 1
(fresh products)
0.061

0.009
(fresh products)
1 Ginger, ground (Phoxim) 1 Ginger, ground (Phoxim)
Baby food 12 - 0.001 - - -  
Tea 10 1
(10.0 %)
(fresh products)
0.006

0.004
(fresh products)
5
(50.0 %)
Herbal tea
from Germany (BAC)

4x Green Tea from Japan and China (Trimethyl-sulfonium-cation)
9
(90.0%)
Herbal tea
from Germany (BAC);
Black Tea
from China
(Trimethylsulfonium-cation);
7x Green tea from Japan and China
(Chlorfluazuron, 7xTrimethylsulfonium-cation, DEET)
Fruit juices 21) - Without residues - - -  
Total 330 17
(5.2 %)
  12
(3.6 %)
  21
(6.4 %)
 

1) No calculated percentages for samples <  5

2) With consideration of processing factors for the respective processed products and without consideration of the separately listed substances found in the section „Special Findings“

3) ML = Maximum residue level established by Regulation (EC) No.  396/2005 and the Dietary Ordinance (for baby food); formal objections due to chlorate and perchlorate not included – see separate section on this topic.

 

Excursus

Authorized substances detected in organic cultivation in 2017

Among the substances that are authorized under European Organic Ordinances (EC) No.s 834/2007 and 889/2007 (see positive list in Annex II) and which are tested and regularly detected, are the insecticides azadirachtin A, pyrethrum (pyrethrine), spinosad and the synergist piperonyl butoxide. Piperonyl butoxide strengthens the insecticide effect of, e.g. pyrethrinen, but has no insecticidal effect itself.
The following table shows the findings of substances authorized for organic farming that were found in the samples analyzed in 2017:

 

Findings of substances permitted in organic farming in reporting year 2017
Substance
Frequency
Product
Amount [mg/kg]

Azadirachtin A

2

Sage
Tomato

0.052
0.005

Pyrethrum

0

-

-

Piperonyl butoxide

5

Spelt flour
Fig,dried
Moringa powder
Table wine grapes
Wheat flour

0.062
0.020
0.70
0.021
0.021

Spinosad

7

Pears (3 samples)
Rucola
Table wine grapes (2 samples)
Tomato

0.002 – 0.003
0.017
0.001 – 0.008
0.087

 

The rate of detection for these substances among the total of 330 analyzed samples was 4.2 % (2016: 9.9 %; 2015: 8.6 %; 2014: 10.4 %). Other substances authorized for use in organic farming such as natural oils, sulphur, copper or ferrous salts were not analyzed as part of these investigations.

 

Residue data and results of particular substances, projects or food groups that have been excluded in the investigative findings thus far will be listed in the following section. They require individual attention, given their uniqueness with regard to occurrence, application, possible sources and analysis, or because they present a new or separate issue of concern.

 

Nicotine

Info Box

Nicotine

Nicotine is a neurotoxin that is harmful to humans and, in higher amounts, to insects (insecticide). It can occur naturally in plants of, e.g. the nightshade family (solanaceae); however, except for tabacco plants, the amount is low. This substance is among the most poisonous pesticides ever authorized for use in Europe. Although nicotine is still used to some extent in third countries (as an active ingredient in pesticides or for the preparation of tobacco), it has been banned in Europe from use in pesticides since 2010, as a result of its high toxicity. Exposure to nicotine can still come from contact with smokers, however. Regardless of the pathway to exposure, nicotine falls under the area of applications in Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005.

CVUA Stuttgart published the report „Nicotine from tobacco – a ‚natural‘ substance against plant pests?“ on the topic of tobacco brew.

 

CVUA Stuttgart established a refined method with a preliminary screening for analyzing the parameters of nicotine in fruit and vegetables. In this reporting year 324 out of the total of 330 samples from organic culture were analyzed especially for nicotine. Of these, 19 samples (5.9 %) contained nicotine (> 0.01 mg/kg), whereby 4 samples (1.2 %) were in violation due to exceedance of the MRL (moringa oleifera powder – origin unknown; dried goji berries from China; and amaranth kernels and flaxseed from India). In the case of moringa oleifera-powder, however, the categorization of this product group in terms of Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005 has changed. It is important to note here that nicotine residues can have various sources (see Info Box). An overview of analyzed samples with their findings is presented in the following table, itemized by type of sample.

 

Nicotine Residues in Samples from Organic Cultivation (2017)
Matrix / Type of Sample
Amount of Nicotine [mg/kg]
Rucola 0.014
Sage 0.033
Moringa Leaf Powder (7x) 0.014 / 0.030 / 0.074 / 0.11 / 0.30 / 0.33 / 0.38
Goji Berries, dried 0.27
Wild Mushrooms, dried 0.21
Amaranth Seeds 0.030
Flax Seeds 0.028
Black Tea 0.13
Green Tea 0.10
Green Tea 0.029
Green Tea 0.016
Green Tea 0.041
Ginger, ground 0.019

 

Notable, low level findings (<  0.01 mg/kg) of nicotine in fruits and vegetables (e.g. in domestically grown apples) led to further analyses to determine whether the consumption of tobacco products can cause the transfer of nicotine from the hands to food.

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Trial 1: Sample preparation: cutting the apples with gloves

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Trial 1b: Touching the apple homogenate shortly after smoking

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Trial 4: Touching the uncut apples after smoking

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Experimental setup: in accordance with standard lab practice, apples free of nicotine residues were cut into small pieces and homogenized, thereby avoiding any possible combined source of nicotine. As a comparison, the same procedure was conducted by a smoker, directly after having smoked a cigarette. In addition, the uncontaminated apple homogenate was divided: one part was taken in the hand directly after having smoked a cigarette (Trial 1b) and the other part was breathed upon by a smoker (Trial 1c). In a separate trial uncut apples were taken in the hand directly after having smoked a cigarette, whereby other sources of contamination during the other sample preparation were avoided (Trial 4). The following tables provide an overview of the trials and nicotine findings.

 

Trials on contamination of nicotine in apple samples: overview of trials and results
Trial
Sample Preparation
(production of apple homogenate)
Gloves used?
Additional Treatment of Samples
Quantity of Nicotine mg/kg**
Non-smoker
Smoker*
1 X   Yes - Unverifiable
1b X   Yes The cut apple homogenate was touched by a smoker* w/o gloves 0.28
1c X   Yes The cut apple homogenate was breathed on by a smoker* Unverifiable
2   X Yes - Unverifiable
3   X No - 0.003***
4 X   Yes Each of the uncut apples were touched by smokers 0.001***

*Directly after smoking a cigarette.

**The quantity of nicotine found was taken from a minimum of 2 trials, with different smokers and different cigarettes. Quantities less than 0.5 µg/kg were seen as unverifiable.

***These amounts were extrapolated and are, therefore, just estimates; the lowest validated amount was 0.01 mg/kg.

 

The investigations have shown that nicotine can be transferred in measurable amounts onto an apple from hands that had contact with a cigarette shortly before. The nicotine transfer is even higher if the food is moist, so the amount comes close to the sometimes low maximum amounts. The assessment provided by CVUA Stuttgart points to possible sources of contamination; however, nicotine falls under the applications area of Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005, regardless of its paths of entry. The investigations into nicotine residues will continue in 2018.

 

Trimethylsulfonium-cation (Trimesium)

Residues of the substance trimethlysulfonium-cation were analyzed in 324 of the 330 organic samples in 2017. Trimethylsulfonium-cation is listed in Regulation (EC) 396/2005 as a substance that forms as a result of the use of glyphosate. This substance cannot be intergrated into the investigative spectrum of the QuEChERS multi-method due to its particular properties; it requires its own processing and analytical method. Residues of trimethylsulfonium-cations were detected in 28 samples (8.6 %); 10 samples (3.1 %) were in violation due to exceedances of the MRL (7x green tea from Japan, China, India and Vietnam; 1x black tea from China and 2x moringa powder from Egypt and an unknown origin). The following table shows an overview of the analyzed samples with detected residue amounts, itemized by matrix.

 

Trimethylsulfonium-cation residues in samples from organic cultivation (2017)
Matrix/ Type of food
Amount of
Trimethylsulfonium-cation [mg/kg]
Quinoa 0.003
Cashew nuts (2x) 0.006 / 0.011
Moringa oleifera powder (8x) 0.008 / 0.022 / 0.023 / 0.031 / 0.034 / 0.037 / 0.10 / 0.43
Wheatgrass powder (5x) 0.024 / 0.031 / 0.045 / 0.062 / 0.064
Red beet, pre-cooked 0.014
Mandarine 0.020
Herbal tea 0.037
Black tea 0.50
Green tea (7x) 0.068 / 0.089 / 0.12 / 0.13 / 0.13 / 0.13 / 0.65
Spice: Paprika powder 0.017

 

There are indications that trimethylsulfonium (trimesium) emerges as a contaminant resulting from the processing of teas or dried food products. All the analyzed samples of green and black tea contained residues from trimethylsulfonium-cation. Continued research on its causes are needed. Regardless of its pathways, trimelthylsulfonium-cation falls under the applications area in Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005 and is subject to the maximum limits provided therein.

 

Phosphonic acid / Phosponate / Fosetyl

In this reporting year 324 out of the total of 330 samples from organic culture were analyzed especially for the fungicidal substances fosetyl and phosphonic acid. Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005 lists the substances as sum parameters of fosetyl (sum of fosetyl and phosphonic acid and their salts, expressed as fosetyl). It is important to note that residues from phosphonic acid can have various sources (see Info Box on phosphonic acid and fosetyl). Neither of these substances are integrated into the investigative spectrum of the QuEChERS multi-method due to their particular properties; they require their own processing and analytical methods.

 

Info Box

Phosphonic Acid and Fosetyl

Both fosetyl and phosphonic acid are fungicides that are permitted for use in the EU, and fall under the applications area of Reg. (EC) No. 396/2005, regardless of their path of entry. Neither of these substances are authorized for use in organic farming, however.

 

Detected amounts of phosphonic acid can result from the use of a fungicide that contains calium phosphonate or fosetyl-al. They can also come from the use of a phosphonate-containing fertilizer. High levels of phosphonic acid can stem from an earlier application, because plants tend to retain this substance for a long time.

 

The following table shows an overview of the samples with detectable residues, itemized by individual product groups or matrices. In 2017 a total of 27 samples (8.3 %) contained residues, continuing the steady and significant decrease over the last few years (2016, 14 %; 2015, 15 %; 2014, 19 %; 2013, 24 %).

 

Phosphonic acid and / or fosetyl residues in samples from organic cultivation (2017)
Matrix/
Type of Sample
Amount of
Phosphonic Acid [mg/kg]
Sum Fosetyl [mg/kg]
(Sum of Fosetyl and Phosphonic Acid, expressed as Fosetyl)
Buckwheat (2x) 0.12 / 0.19 0.16 / 0.26
Chickpeas (5x) 0.27 – 1.5 0.36 – 2.0
Lentils 2.1 2.8
Mung beans, green 0.12 0.16
Rucola 0.71 0.95
Bell pepper 1.0 1.3
Tomato (2x) 0.19 / 0.24 0.26 / 0.32
King oyster mushroom (2x) 0.053 / 0.21 0.071 / 0.28
Blueberries 0.054 0.073
Tablewine grapes (2x) 0.1 / 0.38 0.13 / 0.51
Pineapple 0.79 1.1
Kiwi (2x) 0.32 / 3.8 0.43 / 5.1
Apple 0.056 0.075
Pear 0.14 0.19
Lemon 0.065 0.087
Sultana 0.54 0.73
Spices (2x) 0.69 / 0.76 0.93 / 1.0

 

It is worthy of note, that these residues occurred in a variety of different matrices, from diverse countries of origin, and cannot, therefore, be limited to single food types or countries. There was a very wide range of detectable levels of phosphonic acid, from trace amounts of less than 0.05 mg/kg to a peak value of 3.8 mg/kg (in a kiwi sample). Also of interest is the fact that only residues from phosphonic acid were found in all of the analyzed samples, whereas no residues of fosetyl per se were detectable. This points to the likelihood of a fertilizer application.

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Because the source of the phosphonic acid residues can‘t be determined in the laboratory (see Info Box on phosphonic acid and fosetyl), samples with residue amounts > 0.1 mg/kg (21 cases in 2017, compared with 43 in 2016) were captured in a report with the goal of raising awareness among the producers, so that they would attempt to identify the possible routes of entry. In this reporting year the maximum limit for fosetyl (sum of fosetyl and phosphonic acid and their salts) according to Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005 was exceeded in one of the 324 (0.3 %) analyzed samples (in 2016, 3 out of 418 (0.7 %)). This was a sample of lentils from Italy. Analyses of these two substances will continue in 2018.

 

Chlorate and Perchlorate

Residues from perchlorate and chlorate were also investigated in 324 of the 330 organic samples (see Info Boxes). The following table presents an overview of the analyzed samples with their detectable amounts, itemized by matrix.

 

Amounts of Chlorate and Perchlorate in Samples from Organic Cultivation (2017)
Matrix/ Type of Sample
Amount of
Chlorate [mg/kg]
Amount of
Perchlorate [mg/kg]
Fresh Vegetables
Swiss chard (3x)
Rucola (4x)
Radish (2x)
Cucumber (4x)
Bell pepper (2x)
Ginger
Basil
Head lettuce (2x)
Thyme
Tomato (4x)
Lollo lettuce
Green bean
Fennel (3x)
Radish
Melissa (balm)
Green cabbage
Purslane
Batavia lettuce
Savoy cabbage
Iceberg lettuce
Red beet
Broccoli
Parsley leaves (2x)
Lambs lettuce (2x)
Sage
Spinach (2x)
Chinese cabbage (2x)
Radiccio (2x)
White cabbage

0.098 / 0.12
0.007 / 0.008 / 0.019
0.006 / 0.019
0.006 / 0.007
0.005 / 0.011
0.017
0.013
0.012
0.011
0.009
0.007
0.006
0.005
0.005
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

0.013 / 0.017 / 0.043
0.005–0.036
0.007 / 0.010
0.007 / 0.016
-
-
-
0.011
0.011
0.005–0.009
0.014
-
0.008 / 0.012
-
0.17
0.035
0.028
0.025
0.023
0.020
0.015
0.011
0.009 / 0.014
0.007 / 0.018
0.007
0.005 / 0.020
0.005 / 0.009
0.005 / 0,007
0.005
Vegetable Products
Peas, deep frozen
Green bean, deep frozen (3x)
Spinach, deep frozen (2x)
Red beet, prepared
Moringa olifeira leaves (10x)
Wheatgrass powder(4x)
Barley grass powder

0.011
0.010 / 0.051
0.006 / 0.047
0.030
0.013
0.18
-

-
0.006 / 0.007 / 0.012
0.006 / 0.007
-
0.075–1.7
0.027–0.45
0.070
Fresh fruit
Table grape
Orange (4x)
Banana (2x)
Apple
Lemon
Mandarine

0.027
0.007 / 0.008 / 0.013
0.005 / 0.013
0.006
-
-

-
0.016
-
-
0.015
0.007
Fruit Products
Sultans
Dates, dried
Goji berry, dried
Apple juice

0.039
0.009
-
0.061

-
-
0.019
-
Other
Mushroom (2x)
Wheat flour (2x)
Quinoa
Chickpea
Mungo bean, green
Linseed (3x)
Potato
Herbal tea (2x)
Green tea (3x)
Baby food (3x)
Spice (4x)

0.005 / 0.033
0.005 / 0.009
0.005
0.008
-
0.005 / 0.006 / 0.006
-
-
0.006
0.002 / 0.008
0.009 / 0.41

-
-
0.021
0.009
0.010
-
0.039
0.032 / 0.12
0.16 / 0.25
0.005
0.019 / 0.090 / 0.16

 

Perchlorate residues were detected in 76 out of 324 samples (23 %; in 2016, 17 %; 2015, 20 %; 2014, 31 %; 2013, 19 %) and chlorate was found in 52 samples (16 %; in 2016, 12 %; 2015, 16 %; 2014, 20 %; 2013, 26 %). As was the case with phosphonic acid, these findings were also spread over a wide variety of matrices and countries of origin, and could not, therefore, be reduced to individual sample types or countries.

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Similar to fosetyl and phosphonic acid, the properties of these two substances prevent them from being integrated into the investigative spectrum of the QuEChERS multi-method; they require their own processing and analytical method.

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Chlorate and perchlorate have been routinely analyzed within the scope of the organic monitoring program since 2013. These substances will also be a focal point of investigations in 2018.

 

Perchlorate

In line with the European Contamination Regulation (EEC) No. 315/93, reports on organic samples with elevated levels of perchlorate (> 0.1 mg/kg, based on the fresh product) were drawn up, in order to promote investigations into their causation and to encourage measures to minimize the amounts. In 2017 there were eight (2.5 %) such cases from organic cultivation (in 2016, 2.4 %; 2015, 2.0 %; 2014, 2.2 %): moringa oleifera powder (6x), ground cumin (1x) and fresh lemon balm (1x). Two of the moringa powder samples exceeded the determined reference value for perchlorate amounts of 0.75 mg/kg.

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CVUA Stuttgart addressed the issue of perchlorate five years ago. Since then, reductions in exposure to fertilizer has significantly lowered the amounts detected in plant-based foods. However, the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has recommended a further reduction due to toxicological concerns. Furthermore, the EU Commission plans to establish maximum levels, which is a major success for consumer and health protection.

 

Info Box

Perchlorate

Perchlorates are the salts of perchloric acid. They are generally soluble in water, and exist permanently in the environment. The industrial use of perchlorates is extensive and diverse: they are used in the metal processing industry, in paper finishing, as a diuretic, as an oxidant, and as explosive and incendiary devices. According to a report by the Federal Environment Agency, this widespread industrial use of perchlorate could be a cause of food contamination. Perchlorate lands in the food chain via, e.g. contaminated sludge that is used in agriculture or by other components from such processes. It can also be assumed that these substances are found ubiquitously in small concentrations in rain water and contaminated environmental compartments such as in the water cycle and soil. It is also known that perchlorates occur from fertilizers and artificial irrigation. Analyses conducted on fertilizer based on chile saltpeter revealed high levels of perchlorate. Particular fertilizers used especially in greenhouse cultivation cause the enrichment of perchlorate in soil.

 

Because perchlorate is a contaminant, not a plant protection substance, no legal maximum residue level has been established for it. Based on recommendations by the EU Commision in March and June of 2015, however, the Standing Committee for Plants, Animals, Food & Feed (SCPAFF) gave temporary reference values for perchlorate in food (between 0.02 and 1.0 mg/kg), in order to ensure the marketability of a food product. Foods containing residues of perchlorate under this reference value are therewith marketable in all member states.

 

Chlorate

A total of 22 (6.8 %) of the 324 analyzed samples (in 2016, 6.2 %; 2015, 11 %; 2014, 16 %) contained chlorate residues > 0.01 mg/kg. Although there are known possible modes of entry, it cannot be said with absolute certainty where the amount in a particular sample came from (see Inbo Box on chlorate). Samples with verified MRL exceedances (chlorate values > 0.02 mg/kg) were officially reported to be in violation. In 2017, there were 10 (3.1 %) such cases (in 2016, 1.9 %; 2015, 3.3 %; 2014, 7.3 %).

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In 2015 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published new toxicological assessments regarding chlorate residues in food (acute reference dose of 0.036 mg/kg bodyweight and day). Based on these assessments, none of the analyzed samples exceeded these health-based reference values. That means none exhausted the values by more than 100 %, and posed thereby no chronic or acute health problems.

 

Info Box

Chlorate

Chlorate is an herbicidal substance that was authorized for use in Germany until 1992 and in Europe until 2008 (with a grace period until 2010). It is covered by the EU-wide valid default MRL of 0.01 mg/kg for all matrices, in accordance with Reg. (EC) No. 396/2005.

 

In addition to the meanwhile unlikelihood of residues coming from an application of pesticides, Chlorate can also end up in food as a result of environmental pollution or as a residual of food production techniques, including methods used in farming, processing, preparation, or treatment. Chlorates are used widely, e.g. in the manufacturing of explosives and flammable substances. They also exhibit biocidal characteristics; the use of biocides, from which chlorates can be formed, presents another possible source of contamination. In general, chlorate can also be formed as a by-product of the disinfection of drinking / industrial water with chlorine gas, hypochlorite, or chlorine dioxide. However, no limit value for chlorate in drinking water has been established by the drinking water ordinance. Finally, sources of chlorate can come from environmental pollution (contaminated rain- or irrigation water and soil), the forbidden application of chlorate-containing herbicides, or disinfection measures carried out with chlorine-containing process and washing waters.

 

Hydrogen Phosphide (Phosphine)

In 2017 CVUA Stuttgart analyzed 50 organic samples especially for residues of the fumigant hydrogen phosphide (phosphine). Hydrogen phosphide is often used in sea containers to kill off storage pests during ship transport. Analyses were carried out on cereals, cereal products, linseeds, nuts, and dried legumes. Phosphine is not authorized for use in organic cultivation, so residues are not to be expected. Small amounts of hydrogen phosphide were detected in six samples (12 %), although the highest amount lie at 2.5 µg/kg. None of the samples exceeded the legal maximum stipulated by Reg. (EC) No. 396/2005. Cross-contamination should be avoided, but the practicality of this seems to be difficult. Contamination via dust from the abration of previously stored, treated / fumigated products is also being discussed, as this dust can cling or settle onto the inner walls of the container or storage units and then be transferred to the next shipment of untreated goods if not properly cleaned.

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As a comparison, residues of hydrogen phosphide were detected in two of the 39 analyzed samples from conventional cultivation (white beans: 47 µg/kg and hazelnuts: 1.4 µg/kg). CVUA Stuttgart published a report (in German) as early as 2012 on the topic of residues from the fumigant hydrogen phosphide in arid plant-based foods.

 

Residues of Hydrogen Phosphide in Samples from Organic Cultivation (2017)
Matrix/ Type of Sample
No. of Samples
Amount of
Hydrogen Phosphide [µg/kg]
Cereals 10 -
Cereal products (flour) 19 Wheat flour: 1.9
Legumes, dried 12 Lentils: 1.1 / 1.2 / 2.5
Chickpeas: 1.4
Oil Seeds (Flax) 4 -
Nuts 3 Tiger nuts: 2.0

 

 

Superfood

Introduction

Foods marketed under the hugely successful, though not legally regulated, marketing term „superfood“, include mostly plant-based foods with exotic origins. These are often plant powders or dried fruits that are only to be consumed in small amounts (spoonfuls). They are also available as nutritional supplements (in capsule form or as pellets). Foods attributed to the group „superfood“ include such products as moringa oleifera powder, barley and wheatgrass powder, goji berries, chia seeds, spirulina algae, and flower pollen. Advertising on the packaging and on the Internet suggest, as a rule, that these products are associated with an especially high nutrient content (number and amount), and that their consumption provides additional health benefits.

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Due to the analytical results and situation in terms of pesticide and specific contaminant residues in „superfoods“ from organic cultivation in 2015 and 2016, this issue was also a focal point of the organic monitoring project in 2017. Both the analyzed matrices as well as the investigative spectrum were expanded. In addition to investigations into residues of pesticides and specific contaminants, greater attention was also paid to microbiological contamination (pathogenic microorganisms), radiation, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). Labeling, advertising, and presentation of the products (on the packaging and on the Internet) were also examined.

 

Residues from Pesticides and Specific Contaminants

Results from analyses conducted on 19 organic samples from the „superfood“ group in this reporting year are presented in the following table.

 

Overview of „Superfood“ Samples from Organic Cultivation, Analyzed in 2017
Type of Sample
No. Samples
No. Samples w/ Residues > 0.01 mg/kg1)
No. Samples Falsely Labeled as „Organic“
No. Samples
over the ML 2)
Moringa oleifera, powder 10 6 1
(Cypermethrin,
Permethrin, Thiodicarb;
Origin: unknown)
6
(3x Ametryn, Bromide,
Cypermethrin, 2x DEET, Nicotine,
Permethrin, Thiodicarb,
2x Trimethylsulfonium-cation;
Origin: 1x Thailand, 1x Egypt, 4x unknown)
Wheatgrass, powder 5 - - -
Barley grass, powder 1 - - -
Chia seeds 2 - - -
Gojiberries, dried 1 1 - 1
(Nicotine; Origin: China)

1) with consideration of processing factors relative to each processed product.

2) ML = Maximum level, in accordance with Regulation (EG) No. 396/2005); formal objections for chlorate and perchlorate not included – see chapter on this topic.

3) no percentages calculated for samples sizes < 5.

 

A total of seven of the 19 (37 %) analyzed samples of „superfood“ (in 2016, 11 of 18 samples, 61 %) contained residues > 0.01 mg/kg, as well as amounts of one or more substances over the legally valid maximum level. These included six samples of moringa oleifera-powder and one sample of goji berries. In four of these seven samples (in 2016, nine of 11 samples) the amounts were above the maximum levels even when considering the analytical measurement uncertainty of 50 %. In view of this exceedance of the MRL, they were formally rejected (3x moringa powder, 1x goji berry). In contrast, the six analyzed samples of wheat and barley grass powders had neither residues > 0.01 mg/kg nor any exceedance of valid maximum levels.

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A positive assessment is that only one (5.3 %) sample analyzed in 2017 had to be rejected as being fraudulent. Despite its claim of being organic and taking processing factors into consideration, significant levels of residues were detected. In the previous year six of the 18 anaIyzed organic „superfood“ samples (33 %) were rejected as being fraudulent. The rejected sample from 2017 was moringa powder from organic cultivation of unknown origin. The barley and wheatgrass powders were acceptable in terms of the residue situation and their labeling as „organic“. In the previous year three samples of moringa powder, two of barley grass powder and one sample of wheatgrass powder were conspicuous. The rate of violations for moringa powder sank from 43 % (3 of 7 samples) in 2016 to 10 % (1 of 10 samples) in 2017; for barley and wheatgrass powders, the rate sank from 75 % (3 of 4 samples) in 2016 to none of the six samples in 2017.

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The environmental contaminant perchlorate was detected in 15 of the 16 analyzed samples of moringa, barley and wheatgrass powders, as well as in the sample of dried goji berries (see Info Boxes on chlorate and perchlorate). In 2016 all of the 11 above-mentioned analyzed samples contained detectable residues of this contaminant.

 

Microbiological Investigations (pathogenic microorganisms)

A total of 25 samples of superfoods from both conventional and organic cultivation were analyzed in terms of their microbiological contamination from pathegenic microorganisms. Findings were made in five (20 %) of these samples: one conventional and four organic products. The conventional sample was barley grass powder, in which verotoxigenic E-coli bacteria (VTEC) was detected. Due to the health risk, this sample was judged to be an unsafe food.

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Bacillus cereus was detected in all of the four microbiologically conspicuous organic samples; these included two samples of moringe oleifera powder, and one each of barley grass powder and spirulina algae. Because bacillus cereus is widespread throughout the environment, plant products can often be contaminated with this bacteria. The quantity of bacteria in the samples was not high enough to cause illness. However, improper preparation and storage can quickly lead to a significant increase in these amounts.

 

Radiation

The treatment of food with ionising radiation can, among others, reduce microbial contamination and thereby lengthen its shelf life. According to EU organic farming regulations, however, products from organic cultivation are not permitted to be subjected to radiation.

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In 2017, 16 samples of organically grown „superfood“ were analyzed, including 10 samples of moringa powder and six of barley and wheatgrass powder. One of the organic moringa powder samples was found to have been preserved via radiation. This treated product had been inconspicuous within the scope of the microbiological investigations.

 

Polycyclc Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)

These substances can be formed mainly from incineration processes and can end up as unwanted contaminants in food as the result of improper drying over fumes. A total of 27 samples from both conventional and organic production were analyzed for the presence of PAHs. Amounts of PAH were detectable in six (22 %) samples: five moringa oleifera powder and one spirulina algae.

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Investigations were carried out on 12 samples of moringa oleifera powder. From the five (42 %) samples with detectable amounts of PAHs, one came from conventional production, and four from organic. Three of the 12 samples (25 %) exceeded the legal maximum level for PAHs established by Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 for nutritional supplements containing plant-based substances of 50 µg/kg (1x conventional, 2x organic).

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The sample of spirulina algae was also contaminated with PAH, with levels above the maximum of 50 µg/kg. All of the above-mentioned products with exceedances of the legal maximum level are thereby not approved for retail.

 

Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids (PAs)

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are secondary plant substances that some plant families form in order to defend themselves from predators. Many single substances from this group are toxic to the liver, however. No legally binding maximum levels for food have been established thus far.

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Fourteen samples of flower pollen were analyzed for the presence and amount of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, two of which were labeled „organic“. While six of the 12 conventional samples were declared unsafe for consumption due to very high levels of PA (up to 3,600 µg/kg), the two organic samples contained comparatively low levels of Pa (105 and 190 µg/kg) and were not rejected.

 

Labeling, Advertising, Presentation

The superfood samples analyzed as part of the organic monitoring project were also examined carefully in terms of labeling, advertising, presentation and claims, both on the packaging and, when possible, on the Internet. Information provided by the labeling and / or advertising was lacking in 90 % of the analyzed samples (conventional and organic). In most cases the quantities of nutrients advertised were not stated; prohibited nutritional or health-related claims were made; or there were false or missing elements of the general information required on the package.

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Practically all Internet advertisements of the analyzed products contained misleading statements. Advertisements regarding the nutritional content were fully disproportionate, as the intended small intake, usually only a few teaspoonsful, was not taken into consideration.

 

„Superfood“ products can certainly contain notable nutrients and a wide nutritional spectrum – they are still „normal“ foods, however. Moreover, exotic products often differ from their comparable local products only by their high pricetag.

Note

Detailed information (including results tables) can be found in the German version of the monitoring report .
If you have any questions concerning the report on the Organic Monitoring Program of Baden-Württemberg, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

 

Translated by: Catherine Leiblein

 

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Report published on 09.07.2018 10:37:47