3-MCPD as contaminant in processed foods: State of knowledge and remaining challenges

Food Chem. 2023 Mar 1:403:134332. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.134332. Epub 2022 Sep 20.

Abstract

3-Chloro-1,2-propanediol (3-MCPD) and its fatty acid esters (FE) are present as contaminants in different processed foods. Based on the available toxicological data the potential risk of 3-MCPD and its FE to human health was assessed by risk assessment authorities, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Considering the available data, EFSA concluded that 3-MCPD is a non-genotoxic compound exhibiting secondary carcinogenic effects in rodents. A tolerable daily intake of 2 μg/kg body weight and day was derived by EFSA for free and ester-bound 3-MCPD in 2018. However, there are still different pending issues that have remained unclear until now. Here, we summarize the current knowledge regarding 3-MCPD and its FE with a focus on pending issues regarding exposure assessment via biomarkers as well as the identification of (toxic) metabolites formed after exposure to FE of 3-MCPD and their modes of action.

Keywords: 3-Chloro-1,2-propanediol; Chloropropanols; Food safety; Toxicity; Toxicokinetics; α-Chlorohydrin.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Esters / analysis
  • Fatty Acids
  • Food Contamination / analysis
  • Food Safety
  • Humans
  • Risk Assessment
  • alpha-Chlorohydrin* / analysis
  • alpha-Chlorohydrin* / toxicity

Substances

  • alpha-Chlorohydrin
  • Esters
  • Fatty Acids