We tested over 1,000 food samples for the process contaminants glycidol, 3-MCPD, 2-MCPD and their esters from 2015 - 2020. These contaminants are undesirable in food because glycidol is classified as carcinogenic and mutagenic and 3-MCPD is considered possibly carcinogenic to humans. For 2-MCPDs, too few studies are available to make a toxicological statement.

It is known that especially fats and oils can have high concentrations of these process contaminants. The highest glycidol contents were determined in the food groups "deep-frying oils and fats" and "vegetable edible fats". Therefore, fats and oils are also primarily tested for these heat contaminants. The legally prescribed maximum levels for glycidol and 3-MCPD were largely complied with. However, efforts will continue to be made to further minimize these contaminants in food.