With the planned EU regulation of Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH), one of the most far-reaching developments in European food safety in recent years is taking shape. On 13 May 2026, the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (SC PAFF), section "Novel Food and Toxicological Safety of the Food Chain," discussed a draft amendment to Regulation (EU) 2023/915. The aim is to close a regulatory gap that has existed until now.

What are MOAH and why are they a concern?

MOAH belong to the group of mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH) and have been a focus of food monitoring for years. Unlike saturated mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOSH), MOAH contain aromatic structures that are considered particularly concerning from a health perspective – some compounds in this group are suspected of being carcinogenic.

Sources of MOAH contamination in food can be varied:

• Packaging materials made from recycled cardboard

• Lubricants from production equipment

• Printing inks and adhesives

• Mineral oil-based additives in agricultural production

• Transport and storage processes

The new legal framework

The proposal aims to create a harmonized legal framework within the EU. At the same time, the current "Joint Statement" of 21 April 2022 is to be gradually replaced. Until now, it only defined determination limits above which food could be classified as unsafe under Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 178/2002.

The introduction of the limit values is planned in stages and is expected to apply from 2027, taking transition periods into account. This gives companies time to adapt – but not much.

What companies should do now

Even though the limit values are not due to apply until 2027, the pressure to act is already increasing. Companies along the entire food chain would be well advised to respond early.

Specific areas for action:

• Review production processes for potential MOAH contamination sources

• Assess the packaging materials used

• Establish seamless traceability throughout the supply chain

• Expand analytical and monitoring capacities

• Train employees on the new requirements

• Maintain close communication with suppliers and certification bodies

Impact on the supply chain

The planned regulation could have far-reaching effects on the entire food chain – from manufacturers and processors through to retailers. Experts expect that companies with complex supply chains, in particular, will face significant challenges in implementing the new requirements on time.

For B2B wholesale in dry goods, seeds, spices and nuts, this means that the requirements for quality assurance, documentation and supplier management will continue to increase. Those who are already well positioned will find the transition easier to manage.

Saatenberg is prepared

As a long-standing partner to the food and feed industry, quality assurance and compliance have always been a key priority for us. With our existing certifications (organic, ISO, GMP+, FDA, kosher) and our comprehensive quality management system, we support our customers through regulatory changes such as the upcoming MOAH requirements.

Do you have questions about our products or quality standards? Please feel free to contact us – we provide tailored advice and help you make your supply chain future-proof.