New EU criteria for endocrine disrupters

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are substances that adversely affect hormone function. The effects by EDs are thought to depend on both dose and timing of exposure, especially during foetal development. The upcoming EU regulation on identification of EDs, application biocides and pesticides, will have an impact on all actors of the food chain. The consequences of a ban of EDs in foods were discussed in a Nordic workshop (Uppsala, 29-30 Nov 2016) where risk assessors and managers from Nordic food authorities, industry, trade associations, consumer organizations and researchers were represented. It was recognized by all participants that a ban was particularly challenging for the production chain since there are few viable alternatives. A harmonized EU legislation based on scientific risk assessment was preferred compared to national specific legislation as it treats all the actors equally.