EU has established new low levels for ergot alkaloids in food (EU 2021/1399) with a reduction of the limits for ergot alkaloids in cereal products entering into force from July 1, 2024. The occurrence of ergot alkaloids in Norway has previously been investigated in unprocessed barley and rye intended for feed and a limited number of samples of oats and oatflour from 2024, in addition to a very limited number of cereal-based food products based on cereals with unknown origin (pasta, breakfast cereals etc).
New and low limits apply to cereal products like flour of other cereal species. This project will sample food items form the marked and screen for occurrence of ergot alkaloids.
In addition we will sample cereals from rye on the field, collect agronomic data from the field and survey ergot in gras from the field and the close surroundings.
The aim is to compare the occurrence of ergot alkaloids in food in relation to the new lower limits and to identify potential risk factors for potential measures to reduce the levels of ergot alkaloids in cereals.
Project information:
Norwegian Veterinary Institute: Coordinator, chemical analysis, food survey
Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy: Field sampling, occurrence in cereals and grass, risk factors.
Involved: Gunnar Sundstøl Eriksen, Feng-Ling Tukun
Financing: FFL/JA – pilot prosjekt
Project period: 01.04.2025 – 31.03.2027