Consumer exposure to inorganic arsenic in foods raises health concerns.
This is what emerges from the latest risk assessment conducted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) on this contaminant.
The findings confirm the outcome of the previous evaluation, carried out in 2009, regarding the risks linked to the presence of inorganic arsenic in foods.
EFSA had been tasked by the European Commission to update its assessment to take into account new studies that emerged on the toxic effects of the contaminant.
Generally, foods, including rice and cereals, are the main source of exposure for the European population.
Drinking water also contributes to exposure, although levels in Europe are generally low.
Long-term intake of inorganic arsenic has been associated with a number of adverse health effects, including some forms of cancer.
For its assessment, EFSA considered the increase in the incidence of skin cancers associated with exposure to inorganic arsenic as the most relevant harmful effect.
Experts have concluded that providing protection against skin cancer will also protect against other potentially harmful effects.
In drafting its opinion, the European Authority consulted external stakeholders, taking into consideration the numerous comments received.
EFSA is also evaluating the potential risks linked to exposure to organic arsenic in food.
Once this risk assessment is completed, possible risks arising from joint exposure to both organic and inorganic arsenic in foods will be examined.
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