Regulation (EU) 2023/2783 sets out sampling methods for the control of plant toxins in foodstuffs.
Alkaloids
What is an alkaloid?
What regulation applies to alkaloids?
Alkaloids are a family of compounds that can pose a risk to food safety. Used by plants as a defence mechanism against external threats, some of these secondary metabolites are toxic to humans when they contaminate foodstuffs. Ergot alkaloids, tropane alkaloids (notably from Datura), pyrrolizidine alkaloids, glycoalkaloids and capsaicinoids are therefore subject to enhanced monitoring to ensure product compliance and consumer protection.
Regulation (EU) 2023/915 specifies the maximum levels applicable to ergot, datura and pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Recommendation (EU) 2022/561 indicates an indicative level of chaconine and solanine in potatoes and processed potato-based products.
CONTROL PLAN
Our expertise in alkaloid analysis
Phytocontrol has developed innovative LC-MS/MS analysis methods enabling the identification and quantification of residues from the same alkaloid family.
Ergot alkaloids, produced by fungi of the genus Claviceps, are analysed in cereals and derived products, with a limit of quantification of 1µg/kg.
Datura alkaloids (Atropine and Scopolamine) can contaminate cereals, flours, herbal infusions and infant food. They are analysed and quantified from 1µg/kg.
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are analysed in aromatic plants and cereal products. Some molecules have carcinogenic and genotoxic properties, meaning they may cause DNA damage.
Chaconine and solanine are glycoalkaloids whose analysis is recommended on solanaceae, particularly potatoes.
Piperine is an alkaloid mainly sought in pepper.
Capsaicinoids, including capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin and nordihydrocapsaicin, are active components of chili peppers.
QUALITY
Our accreditations
Phytocontrol is COFRAC-accredited according to LAB GTA (Programme 99-1) for alkaloid assays.
Testimonial
How do we support Pierre, a producer for an agricultural cooperative, in managing ergot risk on rye?
We need to be able to quickly assess the compliance of rye batches to secure their market release and maintain our customers’ trust. With Phytocontrol, we benefit from precise analyses, turnaround times suited to our collection constraints, and quality technical support.
Beyond analysis
Our training courses
Recommended training courses
Discover 2 key training courses to quickly boost your skills
-
Chemical contaminants
Identify natural contaminants that may pose a risk to consumers.
7 hoursRegistration -
Good sampling practices
Secure your sampling to obtain reliable results.
7 hoursRegistration
Questions about our analyses or your project?
Our advisors respond within 24 hours. Tell us about your needs.
SECTORS
Products affected by alkaloids
Our laboratory supports food industry professionals in managing alkaloid risk.
