Mineral oil hydrocarbons: EFSA publishes opinion on these
complex compounds 6 June 2012 The European Food Safety Authority
(EFSA) has published a scientific opinion on human exposure
through the diet to a diverse group of mixtures known as
‘mineral oil hydrocarbons’ (MOH). The potential human health
impact of MOH varies widely; so-called ‘aromatic’ MOH may act as
genotoxic carcinogens (that is they may damage DNA, the genetic
material of cells, as well as cause cancer), while some
‘saturated’ MOH can accumulate in human tissue and may cause
adverse effects in the liver. The opinion identifies some
potential concerns in relation to exposure to MOH through food.
However, EFSA’s experts stress there are several uncertainties
regarding the chemical composition of MOH mixtures to which
humans are exposed and also the wide range of sources of human
exposure. Furthermore, on the basis of new information on the
lack of toxicological relevance for humans of previous animal
studies, the temporary Acceptable Daily Intak