PAH Testing

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can form during drying, smoking, roasting and other heat-intensive processes, and may also enter food and feed through environmental exposure. Several PAHs are known carcinogens and are therefore strictly regulated. Eurofins Food Testing UK Ltd, supported by the wider Eurofins laboratory network and competence centres, offers accredited, high-sensitivity analysis for PAHs along with expert guidance to help you meet regulatory expectations and demonstrate due diligence.

Key services

• Quantitative analysis of PAH4 and PAH8 in food, feed and raw materials

• Additional scopes such as Benzo[a]pyrene, 16 EU-PAHs, 12 EPA-PAHs and 25 PAHs available

• Low limits of quantification (LOQ) for sensitive matrices such as edible oils and baby food

• Validated methods using GC-MS/MS, LC-GC-MS and HPLC-FLD in line with EU regulations

• Accredited testing according to ISO 17025

• Fast turnaround times

• Multilingual reporting

• Support in sampling strategies and monitoring plans

• Comparing against EU maximum levels and internal quality standards

• Specialised testing for smoke flavours, smoked, grilled and roasted products

Additional services

In addition to standard PAH analysis, we offer a wide range of complementary services:

• Process evaluation to reduce PAH formation during drying, smoking or roasting

• Environmental testing of soil, air and packaging materials for PAH contamination

• Monitoring of edible oils and fats for multiple organic contaminants

• Customised method development for complex or novel food matrices

• Training and consulting for your quality and regulatory staff

Regulatory context in the EU and GB*

• Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915 – on maximum levels for certain contaminants in food; applies in the EU and Northern Ireland (NI) only (not in Great Britain)

• Great Britain (GB) continues to apply the retained version of Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as the legal basis for maximum levels of contaminants in food

• Regulation (EC) No 2065/2003 – on smoke flavourings used or intended for use in or on foods; applies in the EU and NI retained in GB law

• EFSA Scientific Opinion on PAHs in Food (2008)

Get in touch

For small batches, order our most routine testing from Eurofins Testing Direct. 

To discuss PAH testing or request a quotation, please contact our sales team on 0845 604 6740 or make an enquiry. 

*Regulations are subject to change. For the latest updates relevant to your target market, please contact your local Eurofins Food Testing UK ltd. laboratory. Our specialists provide tailored support through our horizon scanning and food safety consultancy services.