Why the distinction matters
Not all mineral oil hydrocarbons carry the same risk.
MOAH fractions with three or more aromatic rings are considered genotoxic and carcinogenic, while other fractions are not.
Mineral oil hydrocarbons often enter food via packaging, lubricants, or environmental exposure, which makes accurate differentiation, not just detection, the real technical challenge in Benelux food safety testing today.
A higher-resolution approach
At Klüber Lubrication, we work with leading laboratories to apply advanced two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS).
This high-resolution technique enables precise separation and identification of hydrocarbon fractions, even in complex food matrices, and distinguishes between biogenic and fossil-origin compounds, a distinction that is essential for accurate risk assessment.
Why interpretation matters as much as instrumentation
Technology alone isn't enough. Our specialists support food manufacturers in interpreting analytical results, identifying contamination sources, and implementing targeted mitigation strategies.
This supports compliance with current national thresholds, such as the Netherlands' 0.5 mg/kg MOAH limit, and helps prepare your operation for the pending EU-wide amendment to Regulation (EU) 2023/915, which is expected to introduce binding MOAH maximum levels from 2027.
What this means for your operation
Better testing clarity translates directly into fewer costly missteps and a stronger position as a responsible, future-ready food producer.
Are your current testing strategies delivering the full picture or leaving gaps you haven't yet had to test?
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Contact our food industry specialist
to discuss testing and interpretation support tailored to your production environment.
