The European Food Safety Authority has
published a new report on levels of dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
in food and feed. It shows that dioxin levels in food and feed are
continuing to gradually drop, likely due to the spread and
enforcement of stricter food standards and air emission
controls.
Dioxins belong to the persistent organic chemicals ("dirty
dozen") the production and use of which was banned by the Stockholm
Convention in 2001. Dioxins and PCBs are persistent
environmental pollutants which can accumulate in the food chain.
These toxic substances have adverse effects on human health,
especially developmental effects, and may cause cancer. Animal
products in the diet are the largest source of dioxins for most
people, and the body burden of dioxins increases as people age.
