Published
In 2023, FSANZ managed a survey measuring levels of various metal contaminants in apple juice and other apple products. The samples were collected in all Australian states and territories in 2021 and 2022 as part of a previous national Patulin survey.
What was tested?
Most of the sampled products were apple juice, including not from concentrate, reconstituted and freshly squeezed varieties. Several solid apple products including infant foods, apple puree, apple sauce, canned apple, and dried apple were also included in the survey.
All samples were analysed for metal contaminants including total arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury. Samples with detectable concentrations of arsenic were re-analysed for inorganic arsenic. The levels of tin were investigated in two canned apple samples.
What was found?
The survey found that metal concentrations in apple juice and other apple products were very low. Most samples (82%) had no detectable levels of any of the analysed metals. Lead was detected in 12 of 71 (17%) samples. Arsenic (total) was detected in 2 of 71 (3%) samples. Tin was detected in 2 of 2 (100%) canned apple samples. Inorganic arsenic, cadmium and mercury were not detected in any samples.
All metal concentrations were below the relevant Australian Maximum Levels (MLs) in the Food Standards Code, or other relevant country specific and international regulatory limits. This indicates metal levels in the sampled apple juices and other apple products are as low as reasonably achievable. On that basis, FSANZ concluded that there are no public health and safety concerns for Australian consumers.
What happens next?
Information from the survey will support a comprehensive FSANZ assessment of overall dietary exposure to metals from a broad range of foods as part of the 28th Australian Total Diet Study (for which sampling occurred across 2024).
FSANZ will continue to monitor levels of metals in the Australian food supply to ensure levels are kept low and safe.