As of July 1, 2024, the EU has introduced new maximum limits for T-2, HT-2, and DON (deoxynivalenol) mycotoxins in cereals and cereal products. These updated regulations, part of Regulation (EU) 2023/915, aim to enhance food safety by lowering permissible levels of these harmful mycotoxins.
The maximum level for DON has been reduced from 1250 ppb to 1000 ppb for unprocessed cereal grains, excluding oats. Additionally, the maximum combined levels of T-2 and HT-2 toxins have been set at 200 ppb for unprocessed malting barley grains.
However, the malting and brewing industry is not significantly impacted by these changes. The industry has long enforced its own stringent limits for mycotoxins, which are lower than the new EU thresholds. Brewers and maltsters have robust quality control measures in place, ensuring that their products consistently meet higher standards of safety and quality.
The new EU limits align with the existing practices of the malting and brewing sector, underscoring the industry's dedication to producing safe and high-quality products.
