Public health standards for nutmeg under Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006

13.2.2014

Question for written answer E-001554-14
to the Commission
Rule 117
Britta Reimers (ALDE)

Nutmeg is the seed of the nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans) and is used as a spice. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) classifies nutmeg as a spice seed, not a nut. Moreover, the fruit is not consumed in its entirety but instead is grated for use as a spice or processed to produce an oil. However, under the rules laying down maximum levels of aflatoxins in foodstuffs, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006, the permitted levels for nutmeg are the same as for nuts and indeed lower than the levels permitted for certain types of nut.

1. Why are the permitted maximum levels of aflatoxins in nutmeg not higher, given the ways in which it is normally consumed?

2. What criteria are used in setting these maximum levels?

OJ C 331, 23/09/2014