Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids

Do your food products, ingredients and supplements conform to regulatory limits for pyrrolizidine alkaloids?

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are naturally occurring toxins that can have adverse effects on human and animals, including cancer and liver damage. They occur in a range of plant species and typically enter the food chain through crop contamination.

Many countries have set monitoring levels for specified PAs, but difficulties with method standardization and variability in natural occurrence mean the regulatory landscape can be complex to navigate.

In 2022, the European Union established limits for several products, such as teas, infusions, supplements and herbs. It currently covers 21 alkaloids, including 14 compounds that co-elute, which makes individual analytical quantification impossible under current methodologies.

Meet regulatory limits for pyrrolizidine alkaloids

We provide a comprehensive range of analytical testing services for relevant products to ensure they conform to regulatory limits. Our approach ensures full compliance with all global market requirements set for relevant product categories, including the limits set by the EU in 2022.

Stay informed

SGS DIGICOMPLY’s ‘restricted substances’ feature provides up to date regulatory information   to keep you informed about the latest issues impacting food supply chains.

Why choose pyrrolizidine alkaloid testing services from SGS?

We are recognized as the benchmark for quality and integrity in the food supply sector. Wherever you operate in the world, our experts can support you with state-of-the-art solutions to ensure ingredients, food products and supplements are safe and conform to regulatory requirements.