bilacon establishes a method for the determination of cyanhydric acid
Cyanogenic glycosides occur naturally in foods such as bitter almonds, apricot kernels and flaxseed. During chewing and digestion, cyanhydric acid, also known as hydrogen cyanide, is released. This can lead to poisoning in humans, with symptoms ranging from headaches, shortness of breath and convulsions, and in severe cases, coma or death.
Maximum levels for cyanhydric acid in foods to apply in the EU as of 2023
Regulation (EU) 2022/1364 contains an amendment to Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 regarding maximum levels for cyanhydric acid in certain foods. Previously, there were maximum levels only for cyanhydric acid in apricot kernels.
The new maximum values are valid from 01.01.2023.
The new maximum levels for cyanhydric acid (including hydrocyanic acid bound in hydrocyanic acid glycosides) are as follows:
- 250 mg/kg for unprocessed whole, grated, ground, cracked or chopped flaxseed
- 150 mg/kg for unprocessed whole, grated, ground, cracked or chopped flaxseeds placed on the market for final consumers
- 35 mg/kg for unprocessed whole, grated, ground, cracked or chopped almonds placed on the market for final consumers
- 20 mg/kg for unprocessed whole, grated, ground, cracked or chopped apricot kernels placed on the market for final consumers
- 50 mg/kg for cassava (cassava root), fresh & peeled
- 10 mg/kg for cassava flour and tapioca flour
Affected foods placed on the market before Jan. 1, 2023, may remain on the market until the best-before or use-by date
bilacon establishes a new in-house method for cyanhydric acid
Based on method VDLUFA Vol. III 16.3.2, ISO 2164-1975 and AOAC Method 915.03, bilacon has developed a method for the determination of cyanhydric acid by titration.
This involves enzymatic hydrolysis of the cyanogenic glycosides and release of c cyanhydric acid from the sample by exposure to suitable ferments. This is followed by steam distillation to distill off released cyanide from the sample. The released cyanide is collected in a silver nitrate solution and silver cyanide is formed. Finally, a back titration of the excess silver nitrate is performed with ammonium thiocyanate solution.
Have your products tested in time
Have your food products analyzed for cyanhydric acid by bilacon in a timely manner so that you are on the safe side and can offer products within the legal requirements. In addition, we will also be happy to advise you regarding your products.