MOSH/MOAH assay

Phytocontrol is pleased to announce that, in addition to the analyses already carried out at the laboratory, the R&D department has developed an innovative new method for analysing Mineral Oils, namely MOSH and MOAH.

Mineral oils (MOH) are complex mixtures derived from crude oil. They consist of mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH).
Mineral oils can be found in food at various stages of food production, either intentionally (food additives and pesticides) or unintentionally (lubricants, cleaning products, etc.)

Printing inks, adhesives, additives and processing aids used in paper, cardboard and plastic packaging, as well as jute and sisal bags, contain MOH. Cardboard and packaging, particularly those made from recycled paper, remain one of the main sources of mineral oil migration into food.
EFSA considers exposure to MOSH to be of concern and exposure to MOAH to be of particular concern.

The method developed at the laboratory is carried out by LC/GC/FID and allows the detection of MOSH/POSH and MOAH from C10 to C35, with limits of quantification between 0.2 and 1 mg/kg depending on the product.
Our method allows the analysis of the following matrices: Wines, edible oils, cereal products and derivatives, sugars.

The DGCCRF also conducted a survey in 2015 on the suitability of materials and articles intended to come into contact with food and compliance with the regulations applicable to these products (Regulation (EU) No 10/2011).
The analyses carried out revealed numerous non-conformities linked to contamination through the migration of chemical elements.
Please note that our laboratory is already working on developing methods to detect mineral oils, phthalates and bisphenol in food packaging.

For any technical, pricing and/or regulatory information, please contact us: