{"id":319,"date":"2026-10-13T11:26:43","date_gmt":"2026-10-13T11:26:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/?p=319"},"modified":"2026-09-15T12:08:06","modified_gmt":"2026-09-15T12:08:06","slug":"eu-regulation-2026-1890-furan-baby-food","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/eu-regulation-2026-1890-furan-baby-food\/","title":{"rendered":"EU Regulation 2026\/1890: New Furan Limits for Baby Food \u2014 What Manufacturers Need to Check"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EU Regulation 2026\/1890: New Furan Limits for Baby Food \u2014 What Manufacturers Need to Check<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new EU regulation is changing the requirements for furan and methylfurans in baby food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Commission Regulation (EU) 2026\/1890<\/strong> amends Regulation (EU) 2023\/915 and introduces maximum levels for the <strong>sum of furan, 2-methylfuran and 3-methylfuran<\/strong>, expressed as furan. The regulation was adopted on 29 July 2026 and will apply from <strong>1 January 2028<\/strong>. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/DE\/TXT\/?uri=CELEX%3A32026R1890&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For manufacturers of baby food and cereal-based foods for infants and young children, this is more than a new number on a specification sheet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means reviewing <strong>products, processes, analytical methods and supplier controls before the application date<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does Regulation (EU) 2026\/1890 change?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new regulation adds maximum levels for the combined concentration of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Furan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>2-methylfuran<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>3-methylfuran<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The levels are expressed as furan equivalents. For 2-methylfuran and 3-methylfuran, a factor of <strong>0.83<\/strong> is applied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The calculation is therefore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Furan + 0.83 \u00d7 2-methylfuran + 0.83 \u00d7 3-methylfuran<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The regulation specifies that the maximum levels use lower-bound concentrations, meaning values below the limit of quantification are treated as zero for the calculation. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/DE\/TXT\/?uri=CELEX%3A32026R1890&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This detail matters when reviewing analytical results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which products are affected?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new limits cover two main groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Processed cereal-based food for infants and young children<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Maximum level: 40 \u00b5g\/kg<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Baby food<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are two different limits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dairy-based or fruit-based baby food:<\/strong><br><strong>30 \u00b5g\/kg<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This applies where at least 80% of the product consists of dairy products, fruit, or a mixture of dairy and fruit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Other baby food:<\/strong><br><strong>80 \u00b5g\/kg<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These limits are set out directly in the new Annex entry to Regulation (EU) 2023\/915. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/DE\/TXT\/?uri=CELEX%3A32026R1890&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When do the new limits apply?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the most important points for manufacturers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The regulation entered into force on <strong>19 August 2026<\/strong>, but the new maximum levels will apply from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1 January 2028<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Food that was lawfully placed on the market before that date can remain on the market until its minimum durability or use-by date. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/DE\/ALL\/?uri=oj%3AL_202601890&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That gives manufacturers time to prepare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, waiting until the end of 2027 would be a poor strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The relevant products, processes and testing methods should be reviewed well before then.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is furan being regulated?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Furan and methylfurans are <strong>process contaminants<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They can form when food is heated during processing or cooking. Their formation depends on the composition of the food and the processing conditions. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/DE\/TXT\/?uri=CELEX%3A32026R1890&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This makes them different from contaminants that enter food primarily through environmental exposure or agricultural practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For manufacturers, that distinction is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may not be able to control furan simply by changing a raw-material supplier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>processing step itself can be part of the problem<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why are infants and young children a particular focus?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">EFSA&#8217;s scientific assessment identified infants and young children as an important exposure group, with ready-to-eat jarred or canned foods contributing significantly to furan exposure in this population. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.efsa.europa.eu\/de\/press\/news\/furan-food-efsa-confirms-health-concerns?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">European Food Safety Authority<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">EFSA also concluded that exposure to furan and methylfurans in food raises potential health concerns and could be associated with long-term liver effects. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.efsa.europa.eu\/en\/press\/news\/furan-food-efsa-confirms-health-concerns?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">European Food Safety Authority<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new regulation therefore targets products specifically intended for infants and young children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should manufacturers check first?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first question is simple:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of your products fall within the new categories?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Review your portfolio and identify:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>cereal-based foods for infants and young children<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>dairy-based baby foods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>fruit-based baby foods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>mixed dairy and fruit products<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>other baby foods<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then determine which maximum level applies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not assume that every baby-food product has the same limit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The classification matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Map the affected products<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Create a product list with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Product<\/th><th>Category<\/th><th>Applicable limit<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Cereal-based infant food<\/td><td>Processed cereal-based food<\/td><td>40 \u00b5g\/kg<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dairy-based baby food<\/td><td>\u226580% dairy\/fruit category<\/td><td>30 \u00b5g\/kg<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fruit-based baby food<\/td><td>\u226580% dairy\/fruit category<\/td><td>30 \u00b5g\/kg<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Other baby food<\/td><td>Other baby food<\/td><td>80 \u00b5g\/kg<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The classification should be documented because it determines the applicable maximum level. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/eli\/reg\/2026\/1890\/oj\/eng\/pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Review your existing analytical data<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next, look at historical furan data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Have these products been tested before?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If yes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Which batches were tested?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Which products were analysed?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Was 2-methylfuran measured?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Was 3-methylfuran measured?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What was the limit of quantification?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Which analytical method was used?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Were samples tested before or after preparation?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are the results representative of current production?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This information can help determine how much additional testing is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Testing only furan is no longer enough<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a particularly important change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new regulatory limit is based on the <strong>sum of furan, 2-methylfuran and 3-methylfuran<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, a testing programme that measures only furan does not fully address the new regulatory requirement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The analytical strategy needs to account for all three compounds and the specified 0.83 conversion factor for the methylfurans. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/DE\/TXT\/?uri=CELEX%3A32026R1890&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Check the analytical method<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The analytical method needs to be suitable for the new regulatory requirement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pay particular attention to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>analytes measured<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>limit of quantification<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>selectivity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sample preparation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>recovery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>calibration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>reporting units<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>calculation of the combined result<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The European Commission had already discussed analytical performance criteria for furan, 2-methylfuran and 3-methylfuran during preparation of the regulation. <a href=\"https:\/\/food.ec.europa.eu\/document\/download\/580ce7d2-767f-4bb6-a0fa-3a97f7f5871e_en?filename=reg-com_toxic_20250612_sum.pdf&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Food Safety<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means laboratories and manufacturers should not simply reuse an old furan method without checking whether it covers the new requirement adequately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: Look at the manufacturing process<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where the regulation becomes particularly relevant for R&amp;D and production teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Furan is formed during thermal processing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Review steps such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>heating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sterilisation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>pasteurisation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>baking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>roasting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>drying<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>concentration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is to identify where process conditions could influence furan formation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">EFSA notes that temperature and processing conditions influence how much furan forms and how much is subsequently lost, particularly because furan is volatile. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.efsa.europa.eu\/de\/press\/news\/furan-food-efsa-confirms-health-concerns?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">European Food Safety Authority<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So reducing furan may require <strong>process optimisation<\/strong>, not simply more testing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More heat does not automatically mean more furan<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The relationship is not always as simple as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>higher temperature = higher final concentration<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Formation and loss can occur simultaneously.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Furan is volatile, so some of the compound can escape during processing or preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The final concentration therefore depends on several factors, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>formulation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>temperature<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>processing time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>closed or open processing conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>water content<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>packaging<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>subsequent handling<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why manufacturers should evaluate the complete process rather than changing one parameter blindly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5: Review the formulation<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The formulation can influence furan formation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Furan can form from substances naturally present in foods, including carbohydrates, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids and other compounds. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.efsa.europa.eu\/de\/press\/news\/furan-food-efsa-confirms-health-concerns?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">European Food Safety Authority<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, review:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>carbohydrate sources<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>fruit ingredients<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>dairy ingredients<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>oils and fats<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>vitamin C-containing ingredients<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>other heat-sensitive components<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This does not mean that one ingredient should automatically be considered the cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Furan formation is a process-dependent phenomenon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The useful question is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How does this formulation behave under our specific processing conditions?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6: Review supplier specifications<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Raw-material suppliers can be an important part of the control strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask whether suppliers provide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>furan data<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>methylfuran data<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>processing information<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>batch history<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>relevant specifications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>process controls<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, supplier data should not automatically replace finished-product testing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Furan can form during your own manufacturing process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A raw material can therefore comply with its specification while the finished product develops higher concentrations during processing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 7: Test representative finished products<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finished-product testing is particularly important because the regulation applies to the food placed on the market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider testing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>different product types<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>different recipes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>different production lines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>different processing conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>different packaging formats<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>different batch sizes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Historical data can help identify where the highest-risk products are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A risk-based approach is more useful than treating every product identically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 8: Pay attention to the packaging<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Packaging can matter because furan is volatile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The conditions between processing and consumption can influence the final concentration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>container type<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>filling temperature<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>headspace<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sealing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>storage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>heating instructions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For baby food, the preparation instructions may also matter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">EFSA reported that reheating ready-to-eat infant meals in a hot-water bath without a lid could reduce furan exposure by around 15\u201330%, illustrating how handling can influence exposure. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.efsa.europa.eu\/de\/press\/news\/furan-food-efsa-confirms-health-concerns?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">European Food Safety Authority<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For manufacturers, this highlights an important point:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The product does not exist only at the moment it leaves the production line.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 9: Review preparation instructions<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the product is intended to be reheated or prepared before consumption, consider how those instructions interact with furan exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Relevant factors can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>heating temperature<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>heating duration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>open vs. closed heating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>mixing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>serving conditions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The regulatory maximum applies to the product under the specified regulatory framework, but preparation can still be relevant when evaluating consumer exposure and product behaviour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 10: Build a product-specific risk assessment<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every baby food will have the same furan risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A risk assessment should consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Formula<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What ingredients are present?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Process<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Which thermal treatments are used?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Packaging<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How is the product filled and stored?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Historical data<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What concentrations have previously been observed?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Variability<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How consistent are results between batches?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can identify products that deserve closer attention before 2028.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should manufacturers do if results are close to the limit?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not wait for an actual exceedance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose a product has a maximum level of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>30 \u00b5g\/kg<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and historical results are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>22 \u2192 24 \u2192 25 \u2192 27 \u2192 28 \u00b5g\/kg<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The product may still comply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the trend deserves attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A process that consistently approaches the limit has less room for normal variation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is where process optimisation can be much more valuable than simply increasing the testing frequency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if a product exceeds the new limit?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First, investigate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Possible questions include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Was the sample representative?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Was the analytical method appropriate?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Were all three compounds measured correctly?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Was the calculation performed correctly?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is the result reproducible?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Which processing step could explain the concentration?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Has the formulation changed?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Has the manufacturing process changed?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Only after the analytical result is confirmed should corrective action be determined.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Potential actions could include changes to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>formulation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>processing conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>heating profile<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>residence time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>packaging<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>supplier controls<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right intervention depends on the product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Don&#8217;t wait until January 2028<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The regulation gives manufacturers a transition period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That does not mean the work should begin in late 2027.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A sensible preparation timeline is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Identify affected products and review existing data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Next<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Establish whether current analytical methods cover furan, 2-methylfuran and 3-methylfuran.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Then<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Test representative products and identify high-risk formulations or processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Before 2028<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Optimise processes where necessary and update specifications and quality-control procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This turns a regulatory deadline into a manageable product-development project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should go into the quality system?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the new requirements become applicable, manufacturers should ensure that relevant quality documentation reflects them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>product specifications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>analytical methods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sampling plans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>supplier requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>finished-product testing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>batch-release procedures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>trend monitoring<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>corrective-action procedures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new maximum levels are directly incorporated into Regulation (EU) 2023\/915. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/DE\/TXT\/?uri=CELEX%3A32026R1890&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The change should therefore become part of the manufacturer&#8217;s established food-safety and quality system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why this is not just a laboratory issue<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new furan limits sit at the intersection of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Regulatory Affairs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What limits apply?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Analytical Testing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Can the three compounds be measured reliably?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>R&amp;D<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Which formulation factors influence formation?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Production<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Which processing conditions matter?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Quality<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How should the results be controlled and documented?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Supply Chain<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Which raw materials and suppliers require additional oversight?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A successful response needs these areas to work together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A practical checklist for manufacturers<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the new limits apply, check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Product classification<\/strong><br>Which maximum level applies?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Historical data<\/strong><br>Do you know your current furan levels?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Analytical method<\/strong><br>Does the method cover all three regulated compounds?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>LOQ<\/strong><br>Is the method sensitive enough for the applicable limits?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Formula<\/strong><br>Could formulation influence formation?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Process<\/strong><br>Which thermal steps require review?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Packaging<\/strong><br>Could filling and storage affect final concentrations?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Suppliers<\/strong><br>What information is available for critical ingredients?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Specifications<\/strong><br>Do internal limits reflect the new legal requirements?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Monitoring<\/strong><br>How will results be trended over time?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The key numbers at a glance<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Product category<\/th><th>New maximum level<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Processed cereal-based food for infants and young children<\/td><td><strong>40 \u00b5g\/kg<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dairy- or fruit-based baby food, \u226580% relevant ingredients<\/td><td><strong>30 \u00b5g\/kg<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Other baby food<\/td><td><strong>80 \u00b5g\/kg<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The values apply to the sum of <strong>furan + 0.83 \u00d7 2-methylfuran + 0.83 \u00d7 3-methylfuran<\/strong>, expressed as furan. The new limits apply from <strong>1 January 2028<\/strong>. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/DE\/TXT\/?uri=CELEX%3A32026R1890&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Makrolife perspective<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For manufacturers, the new regulation creates a clear need to connect <strong>regulatory requirements with analytical testing and process control<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first question should not be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cCan you test our baby food for furan?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It should be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWhich products are affected, what evidence do we already have, and what testing do we need to demonstrate compliance?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From there, the assessment can cover:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>product classification<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>regulatory requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>analytical method selection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>furan and methylfuran testing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>risk assessment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>process-related investigations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>specification review<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>regulatory documentation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That approach helps manufacturers prepare for the 2028 application date without treating the new regulation as a last-minute testing exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The bottom line<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Commission Regulation (EU) 2026\/1890 introduces new maximum levels for furan, 2-methylfuran and 3-methylfuran in cereal-based foods for infants and young children and in baby food.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The limits range from <strong>30 to 80 \u00b5g\/kg for baby food<\/strong>, with a separate <strong>40 \u00b5g\/kg limit for processed cereal-based foods for infants and young children<\/strong>. They apply from <strong>1 January 2028<\/strong>. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/DE\/TXT\/?uri=CELEX%3A32026R1890&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Eur-Lex<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For manufacturers, the smartest response is to start now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>identify affected products \u2192 review existing data \u2192 verify analytical methods \u2192 assess processing \u2192 test representative products \u2192 optimise where needed \u2192 update specifications.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The regulation gives you time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use it to understand your process before the deadline does it for you.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>EU Regulation 2026\/1890 introduces new furan and methylfuran limits for baby food from 2028. Learn what manufacturers should review now.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":320,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[58],"tags":[181,152,177,80,166,178,182,67,179,180],"class_list":["post-319","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-food-supplements","tag-baby-food","tag-eu-food-regulation","tag-eu-regulation-2026-1890","tag-food-safety","tag-food-testing","tag-furan","tag-infant-food","tag-laboratory-testing","tag-methylfuran","tag-process-contaminants"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/319","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=319"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/319\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":321,"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/319\/revisions\/321"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/320"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=319"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=319"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/makrolife-biotech.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=319"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}