By: Devane Sharma
What Are MOSH and MOAH? | How Does Mineral Oil Enter Our Food Supply? | Why Does Mineral Oil in Food Matter for Our Health? | Regulations on Mineral Oil in Food | How Are MOSH and MOAH Analyzed? | How Musim Mas Prevents Mineral Oil Contamination in Food | The Future of Mineral Oil Regulation and Mitigation
Ensuring food safety goes beyond checking for bacteria or spoilage. Chemical contaminants can also find their way into our food, sometimes undetected, and pose health risks. Among these are Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons (MOSH) and Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH), two groups of compounds that can infiltrate the food supply through multiple pathways. Given their potential health risks, regulatory bodies and food manufacturers must proactively monitor and mitigate contamination.
What Are MOSH and MOAH?
MOSH and MOAH are subsets of a larger group known as Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons (MOH), which originate from the distillation and refining of petroleum. MOSH consists of saturated hydrocarbons, while MOAH comprises aromatic hydrocarbons, some of which have been linked to carcinogenic and mutagenic effects. Because these compounds are lipophilic (fat-loving), they are particularly prevalent in fatty foods such as oils, chocolates, and dairy products.
How Does Mineral Oil Enter Our Food Supply?
Contamination can occur at various stages of the food supply chain, including processing, packaging, transportation, and storage. Some of the most common sources include:
Processing Equipment:
Machine lubricants used in food processing and packaging can leak and introduce MOSH and MOAH.
Packaging Materials:
Recycled paper and cardboard, often containing ink residues, can transfer these hydrocarbons to food.
Transportation:
Tire debris, exhaust gases, and chemical residues from storage facilities can introduce contaminants.
Food Storage Bags:
Fibers from paper or jute bags that store food products can contain mineral oil residues.
Pesticide Treatments:
Certain pesticides and anti-dusting agents used in grain storage may contain MOSH and MOAH.
Vegetable Oil Processing:
Because oils like canola, soybean, and palm are highly lipophilic, they are especially susceptible to contamination.
Why Does Mineral Oil in Food Matter for Our Health?
Concerns over MOSH and MOAH contamination have grown due to their potential health effects. Scientific studies and regulatory bodies, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), have evaluated their risks:
MOSH Accumulation:
MOSH can accumulate in body tissues, particularly in the liver and lymph nodes. Animal studies suggest that prolonged exposure could adversely affect these organs.
MOAH Toxicity:
Some MOAH compounds, particularly those containing three or more aromatic rings, are suspected to be genotoxic and carcinogenic. These compounds can potentially damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer.
Potential Impact on the Immune System:
Some studies suggest that exposure to certain MOAH compounds might suppress immune function, increasing susceptibility to illnesses.
Long-Term Exposure Risks:
While occasional exposure may not cause immediate harm, chronic intake of MOSH and MOAH-contaminated food could lead to long-term health complications, including metabolic disorders and inflammation.
Regulations on Mineral Oil in Food
Due to these concerns, several regulatory bodies have issued guidelines and recommendations:
European Commission (EU 2017/84):
This recommendation requires EU member states, food manufacturers, and distributors to monitor MOSH and MOAH contamination in various food products, including animal fats, bread, chocolate, pasta, and confectionery. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was tasked with collecting and analyzing data to assess exposure risks and the potential toxicity of these contaminants. While the recommendation does not set legally binding limits, it establishes the foundation for future regulatory decisions by promoting data-driven risk assessments. In addition, the European Commission has proposed further regulatory actions, including stricter control measures and harmonized testing methodologies to ensure food safety across the EU.
Germany’s Proposed MOH Limits:
Germany has been at the forefront of regulating MOSH and MOAH contamination, proposing legally binding limits for these hydrocarbons in food products and food packaging. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has emphasized the need for stricter monitoring, particularly for recycled paper packaging, which has been identified as a significant source of MOH contamination. These proposed limits are expected to set a precedent for broader EU-wide regulations.
Belgium and the Netherlands’ Monitoring Measures:
Belgium and the Netherlands have initiated targeted monitoring programs to assess MOSH and MOAH levels in high-risk food categories, including cereals, edible oils, and confectionery products. Their food safety authorities have implemented routine testing requirements for domestic products and imports, ensuring that MOSH and MOAH contamination levels remain within safe limits. These measures reflect a growing trend toward proactive surveillance and regulatory enforcement in European markets.
Food Safety Authorities’ Testing Requirements:
The EFSA has mandated extensive monitoring of MOSH and MOAH contamination levels, but a universal maximum allowable limit has yet to be established across all food categories.
Industry-Led Standards:
Some food industry players have voluntarily implemented stricter self-imposed limits on MOSH and MOAH to ensure compliance with evolving food safety regulations.
How Are MOSH and MOAH Analyzed?
Accurate detection and quantification of MOSH and MOAH are crucial for food safety. Analytical methods include:
Liquid Chromatography-Gas Chromatography (LC-GC-FID):
This method effectively separates and quantifies MOSH and MOAH in food products.
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC):
Used to detect specific aromatic hydrocarbons in complex food matrices.
Mass Spectrometry:
Provides precise identification and differentiation between MOSH and MOAH fractions.
Molecular Markers and Fingerprinting Techniques:
Advanced methods that allow scientists to trace the origin of MOSH and MOAH contaminants and distinguish between natural hydrocarbons and industrial pollutants.
These analytical techniques help manufacturers and regulators detect contamination sources and implement appropriate mitigation strategies.
How Musim Mas Prevents Mineral Oil Contamination in Food
At Musim Mas, we recognize the importance of ensuring that our food products meet the highest safety standards. We have implemented a risk mitigation strategy to minimize MOSH and MOAH contamination. Our approach includes:
Facility Mapping and Risk Identification:
We identify and mitigate contamination risks across logistics, refinery machinery, and packaging by optimizing our production processes.
Use of Food-Grade Lubricants:
Since 2018, Musim Mas has exclusively used food-grade lubricants in all machinery involved in food production, such as crude palm oil processing.
Engineering Process Modifications:
We have adjusted our production processes to reduce potential points of contamination.
Supply Chain Monitoring:
We work closely with suppliers to ensure that our raw materials and packaging comply with international food safety standards.
Regular Internal and External Testing:
Our laboratories routinely analyze MOSH and MOAH levels in our products to ensure they meet regulatory and industry standards.
Continuous Improvement Initiatives:
We invest in research and development to explore innovative ways to further minimize contamination risks and enhance food safety.
The Future of Mineral Oil Regulation and Mitigation
As scientific research continues to uncover more about mineral oil in food, regulations will likely evolve to set stricter limits and detection thresholds. Some emerging trends include:
Advancements in Analytical Technology
More precise and cost-effective detection methods are being developed to enhance food safety testing.
Increased Industry Collaboration
Food manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and packaging suppliers are working together to develop safer packaging materials and production methods.
Stronger Global Regulations
Countries outside the EU may soon implement their legal limits for MOSH and MOAH, creating a more unified global approach to food safety.
Conclusion
Mineral oil contamination in food is a pressing concern for the food industry, given the potential health risks associated with these compounds. While regulatory bodies continue to refine safety standards, companies must take proactive steps to monitor and mitigate contamination risks. Musim Mas remains committed to ensuring food safety through rigorous testing, responsible sourcing, and continuous process improvements.
