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17.01.2025 - Foods

High acrylamide levels in dried fruit

The Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) pointed out high acrylamide levels in dried stone fruits in a press release in December 2024. Acrylamide has been shown to be carcinogenic and mutagenic in animal studies, which is why intake through food should be kept as low as possible. Especially with dried fruits, the low water content can promote the formation of acrylamide. 

A total of 252 samples of dried stone fruits were examined, of which acrylamide was detectable in 152 samples. The analyses showed that, particularly in apricots, the sulfured variant contained significantly less acrylamide than the unsulfured one. This result suggests that the antioxidant effect of sulfuring appears to inhibit the formation of acrylamide. Dried plums and dates contain acrylamide as often as unsulfured apricots. Dried cherries proved to be unremarkable, with only 3 out of 13 samples containing quantifiable levels. 

These findings gained in Monitoring 2023 should be used to establish guideline values. 

In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct tests for acrylamide in food. We provide you with fast and reliable results.

Our customer advisors are very happy to assist you with any questions.

Sources: www.bvl.bund.de