Food recalls have increased in 2021 – often too much THC in products

The number of food product recalls increased in 2021. The Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) has issued 61 recalls (49 last year) and 18 warnings in this category.

The main reason for food-related recalls was pathogenic microorganisms, the BLV wrote in its 2021 annual report published Tuesday. The bacteria detected included listeria, coliform bacteria and salmonella. The second most common reason was biological contamination. Of these, 15 reports can be traced back to exceeding the THC maximum values.

Several foods containing cannabis or cannabis extracts intended for consumption were examined and, in particular, checked for compliance with maximum THC levels and illegal CBD medicinal claims. The accumulation of diet foods, nutritional supplements and fortified foods is striking.

As in 2020, pesticide residues were a common reason for both public warnings and recalls in 2021. This is mainly due to ethylene oxide residues in sesame products from India. But food additives and flavourings, dietetic foods, food supplements and fortified foods were also affected to a greater extent, according to the FSVO. The substance is classified as probable carcinogen.

Items of everyday use were recalled 13 times and there were also two warnings. In most cases there was a risk of ingestion or choking, for example with toys, and there was a risk of transfer of chemicals from the product to the skin.

If an affected product was manufactured abroad or may also have been sold in EU Member States, the authorities of the affected countries will be informed. This is done in the rapid alert system RASFF (Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed).

In general, the number of RASFF reports has increased. A total of 4590 (last year) 3766 RASFF reports were issued in the European Union in 2021. Switzerland was affected by 315 (241) of these reports last year and caused 67 (2020: 61) of its own. A message from the RASFF system need not trigger an alert or recall. (saw/sda)