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Parliamentary questions
7 February 2012
E-001055/2012
Question for written answer
to the Commission
Rule 117
Spyros Danellis (S&D)

 Subject: Maximum permissible limits applicable to heavy metals
 Answer(s) 

Heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, nickel, chromium, copper and zinc, are detected in sampling operations performed from time to time on fresh agricultural products; for such substances there are no maximum permissible limits defined at EU level (Commission Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006).

Will the Commission answer the following:

1. Why have maximum permissible limits not been established for these heavy metals in fresh agricultural products?
2. Under what conditions are these heavy metals toxic or carcinogenic?
3. What conditions cause such heavy metals to concentrate in fresh agricultural products?
4. Does the method of analysis affect the concentration levels detected?
5. Does the period of exposure to these heavy metals, through the continuous consumption of foods containing high concentrations of such metals, affect the risk to citizens’ health?
6. Does the Commission intend to adopt EU‑wide measures to ensure the safety of European agricultural production and the health of EU citizens? If so, which measures will be given top priority?

Original language of question: ELOJ C 88 E, 26/03/2013
Last updated: 13 February 2012Legal notice