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This work characterized two local and seven improved Cassava Mosaic Disease [CMD]-tolerant cassava varieties for their biochemical composition and viscoelastic (pasting) properties. The biochemical composition and starch pasting properties were evaluated respectively using standard analytical methods and Brabender Viscoamylograph. Cluster dendogram and principal component analyses compared similarities in the nine cassava varieties, thus predicting their varied food and industrial end uses. The different cassava varieties had starch, total sugars and reducing sugars content ranging from 53-69%, 6.5-9.2% and 0.9-2.5%, respectively. The starch content of the cassava varieties on dry weight basis (DW) varied from 54.0% to 69.0% with Nalumino having the lowest and Mweru having the highest respectively. Tanganyika, Mweulu, and Banguerlu also recorded relatively higher starch content of 62.7%, 63.6% and 63.6% respectively. Mweru, Tangayoka, Mweulu, and Bangweulu had fairly high starch content (>60%) and thus could be used for many commercial products such as starches, alcohols and glucose. The viscoelastic properties of the different varieties had pasting temperature (63.5–67.6oC), peak viscosity (402–595 BU), viscosity at 95oC (394–592 BU), viscosity at 50oC (126–254), breakdown viscosity (236–352 BU) and setback (-100–4 BU). Tanganyika recorded the highest pasting temperature (67.6oC), peak viscosity (595 BU), viscosity at 95oC (592 BU) and viscosity at 95oC-hold (317 BU). Bangweulu, Mweulu, Mweru, Manyokola, Nalumino, Kampolombo and Chila A were clustered differently from Chila B and Tanganyika on the basis of their biochemical qualities and pasting properties. These characterizations showed that Tanganyika would be suitable for products requiring high elasticity and gel strength, easier to cook and also more stable during cooking/preparation such as fufu (pounded cassava) and banku or Nshima. Chila A would also be suitable for use as fillers and binders in the baking, confectionery industries as substitutes of wheat flour. The low viscosities of Chila B make it suitable for household food uses such as snacks where the roots are boiled, roasted or toasted and consumed.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are present and pervasive in the environment. Handling of the foods by the vendors is therefore likely to introduce PAHs into the meals. Quantification of PAH...

Cassava was domesticated in the Amazon Basin, where Native Americans selected many bitter varieties, and devised methods for detoxifying them. Cassava reached Africa in the sixteenth century, where rural people soon learned to remove the cyanogenic toxins, e.g., by drying and fermenting the roots. Processing cassava to remove the cyanogenic toxins including the cyanide formed during the processing is time consuming. The work is often done by women, while women and men often prefer bitter cassava varieties for social reasons and superior taste and color. In spite of deep, local knowledge of safe processing, traditional foods made with contaminated water may contain bacterial and fungal pathogens. Improper storage may encourage mycotoxins, such as aflatoxin. Recent advances in industrial processing are developing foods that are free of toxins and microbial contamination. Processing and selling cassava leaves is an emerging but fast-growing sector. Cassava leaves also contain cyanogenic toxins normally in higher concentrations than the cassava roots. In the future, more attention must be paid to the safe processing of cassava leaves and roots, especially as food processing becomes increasingly industrialized worldwide.

This study investigated effects of processing technique and varietal variations on the physico-functional, starch pasting and viscoelastic properties of cassava (Manihot Esculenta Crantz) flours using a 3x6 factorial experimental approach. Samples were evaluated for their non-volatile acidity, pH, swelling power, solubility water absorption capacity (27oC and 70oC), colour and starch pasting characteristics of the cassava flours using standard methods. Grating and soaking of the cassava tubers significantly (p

The present opinion deals with the re‐evaluation of konjac (E 425), comprising konjac gum (E 425 i) and konjac glucomannan (E 425 ii) when used as food additives. Following the conceptual framework for the risk assessment of certain food additives re‐evaluated under Commission Regulation (EU) No 257/2010, the Panel considered that current use of konjac (E 425) was limited in all food categories to maximum permitted level (MPL) of 10 g/kg, and that the calculated indicative refined exposure assessment for all population groups was below 0.1 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day for the general population (mean and high level). Konjac gum and konjac glucomannan were unlikely to be absorbed intact and were significantly fermented by intestinal microbiota. The available database on toxicological studies was considered limited, however, no relevant adverse effects were seen in rats and dogs in 90‐day feeding studies according to the SCF, the no‐observed‐effect level (NOEL) in rats being 1,250 mg konjac glucomannan/kg bw per day. Konjac gum and konjac glucomannan were of no concern with respect to the genotoxicity. After a daily dosage of 3,000 mg in adults for 12 weeks, several individuals experienced abdominal discomfort including diarrhoea or constipation. The Panel concluded that there was no need for a numerical acceptable daily intake (ADI) and that there was no safety concern for the general population at the refined exposure assessment for the reported uses of konjac gum (E 425 i) and konjac glucomannan (E 425 ii) as food additives under the current conditions of use of 10 g/kg. The Panel agreed with the conclusions of the SCF (1997) that the uses of konjac (E 425) as an additive at the levels up to 10 g/kg in food are acceptable, provided that the total intake from all sources stays below 3 g/day.

The present opinion deals with the re‐evaluation of alginic acid and its sodium, potassium, ammonium and calcium salts (E 400–E 404) when used as food additives. Alginic acid and its salts (E 400–E 404) are authorised food additives in the EU in accordance with Annex II and Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008. Following the conceptual framework for the risk assessment of certain food additives re‐evaluated under Commission Regulation (EU) No 257/2010, the Panel concluded that there was no need for a numerical Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for alginic acid and its salts (E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403 and E 404), and that there was no safety concern at the level of the refined exposure assessment for the reported uses of alginic acid and its salts (E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403 and E 404) as food additives. The Panel further concluded that exposure of infants and young children to alginic acid and its salts (E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403 and E 404) by the use of these food additives should stay below therapeutic dosages for these population groups at which side‐effects could occur. Concerning the use of alginic acid and its salts (E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403 and E 404) in ‘dietary foods for special medical purposes and special formulae for infants’ (Food category 13.1.5.1) and ‘in dietary foods for babies and young children for special medical purposes as defined in Directive 1999/21/EC’ (Food category 13.1.5.2), the Panel further concluded that the available data did not allow an adequate assessment of the safety of alginic acid and its salts (E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403 and E 404) in infants and young children consuming the food belonging to the categories 13.1.5.1 and 13.1.5.2.

Mycotoxins in food are increasingly a food safety hazard concern in particular in developing countries. This study was performed to determine the occurrence and determinants of aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination in rice and maize and to assess health risks through dietary intake exposure among ethnic minority groups in northern Vietnam. A total of 111 rice and 102 maize samples, were tested for occurrence of fungi and mycotoxins, i.e. aflatoxins (AF’s) and fuminisin B (FB). Results showed that 107 (96.4%) rice and 84 (82.4%) maize samples were contaminated by fungi. Aspergillus flavus was found in 68 (61.3%) rice and 30 (29.4%) maize samples, Aspergilus parasiticus in 40 (36.0%) rice and 27 (26.7%) maize samples. AF’s - were detected in 27 rice (24.3%) and 27 maize samples (26.4%) at minimum and maximum levels in rice of 2.06 and 77.8 ng/g and 20.5 and 110 ng/g in maize, respectively. Nine (8.1%) rice and 24 (23.5%) maize samples contained FB at ranges of 2.3–624 ng/g in rice and 5.6–89.8 ng/g in maize. Data collected through interviews and observations in households showed that type of crop, storage duration and presence of fungi, particularly mycotoxigenic fungi were important risk factors for AF’s and FB contamination. Based on daily food consumption data, the estimated average exposure dose of aflatoxin B1(AFB1) from rice was 21.7 ng/kg bw/day for adults and 33.7 ng/kg bw/day for children. For FB, the rice based average exposure amounted to 536 ng/kg bw/day for adults and 1019 ng/kg bw/day for children. The calculated excess risk of liver cancer incidence by ingestion of cereals containing AFB1 was 1.5 per 100,000 adults and 2.3 per 100,000 children per year. The average intake of FB was calculated to be lower than the tolerable diet intake (TDI). Our findings highlight that rice and maize are contaminated with mycotoxins at levels representing actual health hazards for the ethnic minority groups consuming these stable cereals. Proper drying and storage conditions in households are likely to reduce the mycotoxin contamination.

The present opinion deals with the re‐evaluation of the safety of food‐grade carrageenan (E 407) and processes Eucheuma seaweed (E 407a) used as food additives. Because of the structural similarities, the Panel concluded that processed Eucheuma seaweed can be included in the evaluation of food‐grade carrageenan. Poligeenan (average molecular weight 10–20 kDa) has not been authorised as a food additive and is not used in any food applications. In its evaluation of carrageenan (E 407) and processed Eucheuma seaweed (E 407a), the Panel noted that the ADME database was sufficient to conclude that carrageenan was not absorbed intact; in a subchronic toxicity study performed with carrageenan almost complying with the EU specification for E 407 in rats, the no‐observed‐adverse‐effect level (NOAEL) was 3,400–3,900 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day, the highest dose tested; no adverse effects have been detected in chronic toxicity studies with carrageenan in rats up to 7,500 mg/kg bw per day, the highest dose tested; there was no concern with respect to the carcinogenicity of carrageenan; carrageenan and processed Eucheuma seaweed did not raise a concern with respect to genotoxicity; the NOAEL of sodium and calcium carrageenan for prenatal developmental dietary toxicity studies were the highest dose tested; the safety of processed Eucheuma seaweed was sufficiently covered by the toxicological evaluation of carrageenan; data were adequate for a refined exposure assessment for 41 out of 79 food categories. However, the Panel noted uncertainties as regards the chemistry, the exposure assessment and biological and toxicological data. Overall, taking into account the lack of adequate data to address these uncertainties, the Panel concluded that the existing group acceptable daily intake (ADI) for carrageenan (E 407) and processed Eucheuma seaweed (E 407a) of 75 mg/kg bw per day should be considered temporary, while the database should be improved within 5 years after publication of this opinion.

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) varieties are ethnobotanically classified by farmers into two distinct classes—“sweet” or “bitter”—based on their taste, most often reflecting the inherent cyanogenic glucoside potential and intended end use. Varietal preference based on general utilization as well as more targeted end use for preferred local and improved varieties is poorly understood and not well documented. The objectives of this study were to investigate prevailing varietal preferences based on utilization and the biochemical composition of local and recently improved cassava varieties. Interviews were conducted with farmers to document the existing varieties, their origin and taste classification, and processing in relation to end use. Biochemical composition was determined for flour samples with particular emphasis on color and perceived dryness. Of the nine varieties identified, four were classified as local, while the rest were classified as improved varieties. Two varieties were classified as bitter, and the rest were classified as sweet based on end use. The classification dichotomy based on taste is an important factor in determining potential toxicity. Labile varieties that are easily affected by microenvironmental factors were classified as bitter. Reasons for preference and utilization focus as much on the leaves for use as vegetables as on the roots. The taste classification of the roots determines how and whether they are to be processed. The varieties “Mweulu” and “Tanganyika” were perceived by farmers as having excellent characteristics for making the staple dish “nshima,” reflected by their high carbohydrate contents. The variety “Bangweulu” was identified as having “bigger and starchier” roots in interviews, and the biochemical assay verified these observations. The flour sample analysis revealed crude protein content ranged from 4.86% to 7.09%. Cluster and principal component analyses showed four groupings, with the single Malawian variety exhibiting the greatest differences from the Zambian clones, while the improved varieties bred from a single mother line displayed the closest similarities. The high energy and carbohydrate values of the nine varieties provide a good basis for acceptance; however, factors such as shelf life, storage, and other postharvest qualities such as susceptibility to weevil attacks also play a determining role in the acceptance of improved cassava varieties.

The Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS) provides a scientific opinion re‐evaluating the safety of tragacanth (E 413) as a food additive. In the EU, tragacanth (E 413) has been evaluated by the Scientific Committee for Food (SCF, 1989) and by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA, 1987), who both allocated an acceptable daily intake (ADI) ‘not specified’ for this gum. Following the conceptual framework for the risk assessment of certain food additives, re‐evaluated under Commission Regulation (EU) No 257/2010, the Panel considered that adequate exposure and toxicity data were available. Tragacanth (E 413) is unlikely to be absorbed intact and is partially fermented by intestinal microbiota. No adverse effects were reported in carcinogenicity studies at the highest dose tested and there is no concern with respect to the genotoxicity. Oral daily intake of a large amount of tragacanth up to 9,900 mg tragacanth/person per day (approximately equivalent 141 mg tragacanth/kg body weight (bw) per day) for up to 21 days was well tolerated in humans. The Panel concluded that there is no need for a numerical ADI for tragacanth (E 413) and that there is no safety concern for the general population at the refined exposure assessment of tragacanth (E 413) as a food additive at the reported uses and use levels.

The present opinion deals with the re‐evaluation of lecithins (E 322) when used as a food additive. Lecithins (E 322) is an authorised food additive in the EU according to Annex II and Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives, and have been previously evaluated by JECFA in 1973 and by the SCF in 1982. Among lecithins, phosphatidylcholine is hydrolysed in choline in the cytidine‐5‐diphosphate‐choline pathway in all cells of the body. Following the conceptual framework for the risk assessment of certain food additives re‐evaluated under Commission Regulation (EU) No 257/2010, the Panel concluded that there was no need for a numerical ADI for lecithins (E 322) and that there was no safety concern for the general population from more than 1 year of age at the refined exposure assessment for the reported uses of lecithins (E 322) as a food additive. The Panel further concluded that there is no safety concern for the exposure to the choline from lecithins (E 322) as a food additive at use and use levels reported by industry. For infants (from 12 weeks up to 11 months of age), the Panel concluded that there was no safety concern at the refined exposure assessment for the reported uses of lecithins (E 322) as a food additive and for the choline from lecithins (E 322) as a food additive at use and use levels reported by industry. For infants and young children consuming foods for special medical purposes, the Panel concluded that there was no safety concern with respect to the refined exposure assessment for the reported uses of lecithins (E 322) as a food additive and for exposure to choline resulting from these uses of lecithins (E 322).

Fungal infection and aflatoxin contamination were evaluated on 114 samples of dried and milled spices such as ginger, garlic and black pepper from southern Benin and Togo collected in November 2008–January 2009. These products are dried to preserve them for lean periods available throughout the year. Fungal contamination was evaluated after plating on selective media with a total of 20 fungal genera identified, ranging from 7 in garlic to 14 in ginger. Ginger and pepper showed high incidence of fungal contamination compared to garlic that had lower levels of fungal contamination. Species of Aspergillus were dominant on all marketed dried and milled spices irrespective of country. Gene characterization and amplification analysis showed that most of the Aspergillus flavus isolates possess the cluster genes for aflatoxin production. Aflatoxin B1 assessment by Thin Layer Chromatography showed that only garlic (1 sample) and ginger (4 samples) were naturally contaminated with aflatoxin B1 ranging from 390 μg/kg to 1045 μg/kg respectively. Previous reports have mostly highlighted the risk of mycotoxin exposure from staple crops and vegetables in Africa, but such risks now need to be evaluated further for other products such as dried and milled spices.

Aflatoxins, fumonisins and ochratoxin A that contaminate various agricultural commodities are considered of significant toxicity and potent human carcinogens. This study took a total dietary study approach and estimated the dietary exposure of these mycotoxins for adults living in Lao Cai province, Vietnam. A total of 42 composite food samples representing 1134 individual food samples were prepared according to normal household practices and analysed for the three mycotoxins. Results showed that the dietary exposure to aflatoxin B1 (39.4 ng/kg bw/day) and ochratoxin A (18.7 ng/kg bw/day) were much higher than recommended provisional tolerable daily intake (PTDI) values mainly due to contaminated cereals and meat. The exposure to total fumonisins (1400 ng/kg bw/day) was typically lower than the PTDI value (2000 ng/kg bw/day). The estimated risk of liver cancer associated with exposure to aflatoxin B1 was 2.7 cases/100,000 person/year. Margin of exposure (MOE) of renal cancer linked to ochratoxin A and liver cancer associated with fumonisins were 1124 and 1954, respectively indicating risk levels of public health concern. Further studies are needed to evaluate the efficiency of technical solutions which could reduce mycotoxin contamination as well as to determine the health effects of the co-exposure to different types of mycotoxins.

PurposeCassava production surged noticeably in Southeastern Africa beginning in the 1990s. The purpose of this paper is to examine the commercial responses and food security consequences of cassava production growth in the region.Design/methodology/approachThe paper incorporates a mix of quantitative analysis, based primarily on original analysis of national farm household survey data, together with key informant interviews with value chain participants in the three neighboring countries of Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia.FindingsIn the cassava production zones, cassava's high productivity translates into per kilogram carbohydrate costs 60 per cent to 70 per cent of the cost of cereals such as maize and wheat, thereby opening up a range of profitable opportunities for commercialization of cassava‐based foods, feeds and industrial products. Despite this potential, cassava commercialization in Southeastern Africa remains in its formative stages, with only 10 per cent to 30 per cent of production currently marketed. Unlike West Africa, where cassava commercialization has centered on marketing prepared cassava‐based convenience foods, the emerging cassava markets in Southeastern Africa have centered on fresh cassava, low value‐added cassava flour, and experiments in industrial processing of cassava‐based starches, biofuels and feeds. Strategic investment in a set of key public goods (breeding, training in food sciences and food safety, and research on in‐ground cassava storage) can help to shape this transition in ways that benefit both commercial interests and the food security of vulnerable households.Originality/valueThe paper compares cassava commercialization across differing agro‐climatic zones, policy environments and food staple zones.

Mycotoxins contamination in some agricultural food commodities seriously impact human and animal health and reduce the commercial value of crops. Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi that contaminate agricultural commodities pre- or postharvest. Africa is one of the continents where environmental, agricultural and storage conditions of food commodities are conducive of Aspergillus fungi infection and aflatoxin biosynthesis. This paper reviews the commodity-wise aetiology and contamination process of aflatoxins and evaluates the potential risk of exposure from common African foods. Possible ways of reducing risk for fungal infection and aflatoxin development that are relevant to the African context. The presented database would be useful as benchmark information for development and prioritization of future research. There is need for more investigations on food quality and safety by making available advanced advanced equipments and analytical methods as well as surveillance and awareness creation in the region.

Studies conducted in Benin, in which the main staple foods are maize, cassava, groundnuts and yams, showed high levels of aflatoxin residues in blood of the exposed population. The natural contamination with fungi and aflatoxins in cassava chips sold at markets in Benin, West Africa was investigated. A total of sixty samples were sampled from open markets in 11 districts of 3 agroecological zones and analyzed for the presence of mycoflora and aflatoxin B 1 , B 2 , G 1 and G 2 . Fourteen genera of fungi were associated with marketed dried cassava chips. Within these, twenty- two isolates were identified to species level, whereas four were identified only to genus. The dominating fungal species isolated were Rhizopus oryzae , Nigrospora oryzae , Chrysonilia sitophila , Cladosporium resinae , Cladosporium herbarum , Apergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus . Fifty-four out of sixty samples were contaminated with A . flavus . The rate of occurrence in CFU/g of A. flavus fungi was lower than for all other fungal species together. Aflatoxin was not detected in any of the samples analyzed using HPLC with post-column photochemical derivatization and fluorescence detection. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.1 μg/kg. Results from this study suggest cassava chips are unlikely to be a source of aflatoxin in Benin, and that other staples such as maize and groundnuts are more important in aflatoxin exposure. Therefore it can be speculated that staples like maize and groundnut are more important in aflatoxin exposure.

Coumarins have been found in many plant species and some have antimicrobial and antifungal activities as well as pharmacological effects. Scopoletin (6-methoxy-7-hydroxycoumarin) is a coumarin compound with antifungal properties that has been isolated from several plant species. Although it is not yet fully understood, the biosynthesis of scopoletin is described. In addition, its induction upon attack by pathogens and abiotic stress as well as its inhibitory effects on bacteria and fungi are summarized in this review. The scientific information on the inhibitory effect of scopoletin on storage fungi is scarce.

BACKGROUND: The use of the root crop cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is constrained by its rapid deterioration after harvesting. Chemical and spectroscopic examination earlier revealed the accumulation of the four hydroxycoumarins esculetin, esculin, scopolin and scopoletin derived from the phenylpropanoid pathway, during the time course of postharvest deterioration. In this investigation the scopoletin level in parenchymal samples of four cassava cultivars used in Benin, i.e. Kpaki kpika, Kpaki soan, Logoguesse kotorou and BEN 86052, was investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). RESULTS: Presence was shown in all four varieties with a mean in fresh roots between 4.1 and 11.1 mg kg−1 dry weight. A strong increase in the content of scopoletin was noticed after a peeling and drying process (6 days) for chip production, the mean content reaching 242.5 mg kg−1 dry weight in the cultivar BEN 86052. After 3 months of storage this had decreased to 0.7 mg kg−1 dry weight. CONCLUSION: Strong accumulation of scopoletin in cassava roots used for chip production in Benin is followed by a decrease in its concentration. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry

The third generation cephalosporin cefovecin has been shown to have an exceptionally long elimination half-life in dogs and cats, making it suitable for antibacterial treatment with a 14-day dosing interval in these species. Pharmacokinetic parameters for cefovecin were investigated in juvenile hens and green iguanas, following subcutaneous injections with 10 mg cefovecin/kg bodyweight. Preliminary studies in eight additional species of birds and reptiles were performed and results were compared with the parameters found in hens and green iguanas. The kinetics were characterized by rapid absorption with peak plasma concentration of 6 +/- 2 microg/mL in hens and 35 +/- 12 microg/mL in green iguanas. The mean plasma half-life for cefovecin was 0.9 +/- 0.3 h for hens and 3.9 h in green iguanas. Volume of distribution was 1.6 +/- 0.5 L/kg for hens and 0.3 L/kg for green iguanas and clearance was 1252 +/- 185 mL.h/kg for hens and 53 mL.h/kg for green iguanas. Results from preliminary studies did not differ notably from those seen in hens and green iguanas. Cefovecin is not suitable for the treatment of bacterial infections with a 14-day dosing interval in hens or green iguanas and seems not to be in a number of other bird and retile species either.

A mixture of deltonin and 25-isodeltonin (approx. 1 : 1) was found to be the molluscicidal principle in seeds of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. The disposition in the schistosomiasis vector Biomphalaria glabrata and in mice was studied. Snails were exposed to 3H-labelled saponin in water. Administration to mice was oral (O) and intravenous (IV). Snails absorbed the compounds rapidly and showed a high degree of bioaccumulation. The highest concentration was found in the foot followed by the intestines. Snails could excrete the compounds from all organs investigated. Saponin given orally to mice was partly hydrolysed in the intestine, a fraction of genuine and hydrolysed compound being absorbed. Genuine saponin given IV was rapidly distributed to the liver, kidney (medulla), lung and spleen. Compounds did not pass the placenta nor enter the CNS. Excretion was mainly biliary, a minor fraction being excreted in the urine all as genuine compound. About 80% was excreted within 72 hr. While only two (more lipophilic) metabolites were formed in significant amounts by the mice, three such metabolites were seen in extracts of snails. The final toxic agent and the mode of action to target snails remains to be further investigated.

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a perennial shrub with a bulky storage root. The dry matter content of approximately 35% is mostly made up of starch; protein content being low. Both roots and leaves are used in food preparation. All parts of the plant contain cyanogenic glycosides. Upon processing these are hydrolyzed to release cyanohydrins, which in turn release the toxic HCN. Anti-nutrients and other bioactive agents present in roots/leaves also include coumarins, nitrate, oxalate, phytic acid, saponins, tannins, and trypsin inhibitors. Roots with yellow parenchyma have elevated contents of carotenoids; some with vitamin A effect. Fresh peeled roots may be subjected to one of the following unit processes: drying, soaking (retting, steeping), cooking, frying, size reduction (grating), or fermentation. Leaves may be pounded and cooked. The fate of the cyanogenic glycosides, coumarin, scopoltin, and carotenoids during processing is reviewed.

Lack of knowledge about the effects of herbs in pastures and the frequency of their use by today's organic farmers has limited the development of new methods to improve animal health compatible with organic farming principles. Understanding farmers' agricultural practices is an early step in a participatory research process. With this in mind, we conducted a two-tiered, semi-structured survey of Danish organic farmers with dairy cattle to begin documenting their practices. Out of 350 farmers, 255 completed a mailed questionnaire – a response rate of 73%. Of these participating farmers, 66 (26%) confirmed their use of herbs in pastures. Caraway was sown at an average rate of 500 g of seed per hectare by 60 (91%). Of these, 32 used solely caraway, while 7 used it in combination with parsley. Twenty-one used caraway together with herbs other than parsley. Six used one or more herbs, not including caraway, such as chicory, chervil, dill, fenugreek, great burnet, and salad burnet. Further details concerning cultivation, convictions, observed effects, and information sources were obtained through telephone interviews. The results of this study would indicate that more research in this field is called for.

Twenty-four juvenile leopard tortoises were divided into four groups of six; one group was fed a basic low-calcium feed for six months, and the other three groups were fed the same basic diet supplemented with one, three and nine times the amount of calcium recommended as a supplement to the diet of reptiles. The animals' bone mineral content and bone mineral density were estimated by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, and blood samples were taken at the start and at the conclusion of the study. One tortoise from each group was examined postmortem. There was a clear depletion of calcium in the body of the tortoises receiving no calcium supplement, and the shell of the tortoises receiving the recommended calcium supplement did not calcify to the extent expected. The tortoises that received three times the recommended calcium supplementation had the highest growth rate and were thriving. However, metastatic calcifications were observed postmortem in the two groups that were given the highest doses of calcium.

The choice of subject for a credit paper to pass a university course in food toxicology was analysed as a measure of the curiosity towards different topics. The investigation covers 575 students over 28 years. The choices were analysed against investigations on food safety concerns, the development in the period, the official risk communication campaigns and media detailed scandals. Food additives (131 papers) followed by plant toxins were the most popular subjects, with artificial sweeteners as the most attractive within the additives. Pesticides were only chosen by 21 students, residues of veterinary drugs being even less attractive. To a certain extent choices differed among the two genders. The article proposes a theoretical device “the common basic level of specific curiosity”. This is fairly stable over time, and specific in that the curiosity towards subgroups within the additives differ. These findings should be taken into account when planning risk communication.

Cassava roots, a major food in Africa, contain cyanogenic glucosides that may cause toxic effects. Malawian women farmers considered fields of seemingly similar cassava plants to be mixes of both ‘cool’ and ‘bitter’ cultivars. They regard roots from ‘cool’ cultivars as non-toxic. Roots of ‘bitter’ were considered to require extensive traditional processing done by women to be safe for consumption. But curiously, these women farmers preferred ‘bitter’ cultivars since toxicity confers protection against theft, which was a serious threat to the food security of their families. We studied how well these farmers comprehend the effects of genetic variations in cassava when dealing with cyanogenesis in this complex system. Using molecular markers we show that most plants farmers identified as belonging to a particular named cultivar had a genotype typical of that cultivar. Farmers' ethno-classification into ‘cool’ and ‘bitter’ cultivars corresponded to a genetic sub-division of the typical genotypes of the most common cultivars, with four-fold higher cyanogenic glucoside levels in the bitter cultivars. Examining morphology, farmers distinguished genotypes better than did the investigators when using a standard botanical key. Undoubtedly, these women farmers grasp sufficiently the genetic diversity of cassava with regard to cyanogenesis to simultaneously benefit from it and avoid its dangers. Consequently, acyanogenic cassava – the breeding of which is an announced good of some cassava genetic improvement programmes – is not a priority to these farmers. Advances in molecular genetics can help improve food supply in Africa by rapid micropropagation, marker assisted breeding and introduction of transgenic varieties, but can also help to elucidate tropical small-scale farmers' needs and skills.

Heterophylly (juvenile-adult leaf dimorphism) is widespread among native woody species of the Mascarene Islands, but the causes to this phenomenon have so far not been fully explained. The absence of mammals and dominance of now extinct giant tortoises and flightless birds are characteristics of the original Mascarene fauna. The present study investigates the hypothesis that the distinct morphology and colouration of juvenile leaves signalled unpalatability to browsing giant tortoises or birds. Juvenile and adult leaves of 28 heterophyllous woody species endemic to the islands of Mauritius and Rodrigues were screened for possible chemical defences against herbivory. The screening comprised the following classes of secondary compounds: alkaloids, cyanogenic constituents, saponins, simple phenolics, tannins and anthocyanins. The screening showed that there are no consistent significant differences between juvenile and adult leaves regarding any of the studied secondary compound classes, with the exception of the level of anthocyanins, which was significantly higher in juvenile leaves. This difference was also clearly reflected in a generally high degree of red patterning of juvenile leaves. Based on comparisons with floras of other oceanic islands once inhabited by tortoises and birds, and an evaluation of feeding habits of these herbivores, we suggest that the reduced lamina and partly red colouration of juvenile leaves may be an evolutionary response to selective herbivory by birds.

Mucor circinelloides LU M40 produced 12·2 mU ml−1 of linamarase activity when grown in a 3 l fermenter in the following optimized medium (g l−1 deionized water): pectin, 10·0; (NH4)2SO4, 1·0; KH2PO4, 2·0; Na2HPO4, 0·7; MgSO4.7H2O, 0·5; yeast extract, 1·0; Tween-80, 1·0, added after 48 h of fermentation. The purified linamarase was a dimeric protein with a molecular mass of 210 kDa; the enzyme showed optimum catalytic activity at pH 5·5 and 40 °C and had a wide range (3·0–7·0) of pH stability. The enzyme substrate specificity on plant cyanogenic glycosides was wide; the Km value for linamarin was 2·93 mmol l−1. The addition, before processing, of the fungal crude enzyme to cassava roots facilitated and shortened detoxification; after 24 h of fermentation, all cyanogenic glycosides were hydrolysed.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was asked by the European Commission to deliver a scientific opinion on ergot alkaloids (EAs) in food and feed. EAs are produced by several members within the fungal orders of Hypocreales and Eurotiales. In Europe, Claviceps purpurea is the most widespread Claviceps species within the Hypocreales. A total of 20 558 analytical results for EAs in 1 716 food, 496 feed and 67 unprocessed grain samples were considered in this opinion. Based on the EAs identified in sclerotia of C. purpurea, and recent literature data, the EFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM Panel) based its risk assessment on the main C. purpurea EAs, namely ergometrine, ergotamine, ergosine, ergocristine, ergocryptine (which is a mixture of a- and ß- isomers), ergocornine, and the corresponding –inine epimers. The CONTAM Panel performed estimates of both chronic and acute exposure for various age groups across European countries. A BMDL10 of 0.33 mg/kg b.w. per day was calculated for the incidence of tail muscular atrophy in a 13-week rat feeding study of ergotamine. This effect was considered representative of the vasoconstrictive effects of EAs and provided a suitable reference point for establishment of a group acute reference dose of 1 µg/kg body weight (b.w.) and a group tolerable daily intake of 0.6 µg/kg b.w. per day. The Panel concluded that whilst the available data do not indicate a concern for any population subgroup, the dietary exposure estimates relate to a limited number of food groups and a possible unknown contribution from other foods cannot be discounted. Estimates of exposure for livestock based on example diets and levels of EAs in cereal grains reported suggest that under normal conditions the risk of toxicosis is low.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was asked by the European Commission to deliver a scientific opinion on ergot alkaloids (EAs) in food and feed. EAs are produced by several members within the fungal orders of Hypocreales and Eurotiales. In Europe, Claviceps purpurea is the most widespread Claviceps species within the Hypocreales. A total of 20 558 analytical results for EAs in 1 716 food, 496 feed and 67 unprocessed grain samples were considered in this opinion. Based on the EAs identified in sclerotia of C. purpurea, and recent literature data, the EFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM Panel) based its risk assessment on the main C. purpurea EAs, namely ergometrine, ergotamine, ergosine, ergocristine, ergocryptine (which is a mixture of α- and β- isomers), ergocornine, and the corresponding –inine epimers. The CONTAM Panel performed estimates of both chronic and acute exposure for various age groups across European countries. A BMDL10 of 0.33 mg/kg b.w. per day was calculated for the incidence of tail muscular atrophy in a 13-week rat feeding study of ergotamine. This effect was considered representative of the vasoconstrictive effects of EAs and provided a suitable reference point for establishment of a group acute reference dose of 1 μg/kg body weight (b.w.) and a group tolerable daily intake of 0.6 μg/kg b.w. per day. The Panel concluded that whilst the available data do not indicate a concern for any population subgroup, the dietary exposure estimates relate to a limited number of food groups and a possible unknown contribution from other foods cannot be discounted. Estimates of exposure for livestock based on example diets and levels of EAs in cereal grains reported suggest that under normal conditions the risk of toxicosis is low.

Cyanogenic food crops abound in nature with important crops like cassava forming the staple food for over half a billion people. Detoxification by hydrolysis of cassava cyanogenic glycosides often involves acid fermentation, and in some of these processes Bacillus species are encountered. Forty Bacillus spp. (20 Bacillus subtilis, 11 Bacillus licheniformis, 7 Bacillus sonorensis, 2 Bacillus cereus) isolated from acid fermented primary starters to produce Gergoush, a Sudanese fermented snack, were screened for their ability to grow and to hydrolyze linamarin, the major cyanogen found in cassava at pH levels below 5.0; also the cyanogen amygdalin was assessed. The B. subtilis isolates grew in both HCl and lactic acid environments from pH 4.5–6.0 while being able to break down the cyanogenic glycosides. The B. licheniformis and B. sonorensis isolates grew and degraded cyanogens at pH 5.0 in a HCl environment, while two B. cereus isolates used in the study showed no breakdown reaction under all conditions tested. One B. subtilis isolate was observed to have substrate specificity between the breakdown of linamarin and amygdalin. We conclude that some Bacillus spp. isolates are important in the microbiological breakdown of cyanogens in cassava fermentations even at pH 4.5–5.0 though further investigations are required.

Fifty-eight strains, representing 31 species of Penicillium, were screened for extracellular β-glycosidase (amygdalase/linamarase) and pectolytic (polygalacturonase, pectin lyase) enzymes. One strain each of P. turbatum, P. piceum and P. paxilli showed very high β-glycosidase activity and slightly lower activities were found in P. crustosum, P. expansum, P. oxalicum and P. aurantiogriseum. Generally, maximum β-glycosidase activity showed reached during the stationary phase of growth. The seven species with highest β-glycosidase activity showed different patterns of pectolytic activities, indicating that different species or combinations of species could be selected for different potential applications.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was asked by the European Commission to deliver a scientific opinion on pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA) in food and feed. PAs are toxins exclusively biosynthesised by plants. To date, approximately 600 different PAs are known. Results for 13,280 bulk honey and 1324 retail honey samples were provided to EFSA by one Member State and 351 feed samples were provided by a second Member State. The EFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM Panel) performed estimates of both acute and chronic exposure to PAs through honey for three different age groups. Although there might be other sources of PA exposure, due to lack of data the CONTAM Panel was not able to quantify dietary exposure from food other than honey. A number of PAs were identified as being of particular importance for food and feed. Based on the present knowledge of metabolism, activation, DNA adduct‐formation, genotoxicity and carcinogenicity, the CONTAM Panel concluded that 1,2–unsaturated PAs may act as genotoxic carcinogens in humans. Therefore, the CONTAM Panel decided to apply the Margin of Exposure (MOE) approach. A benchmark dose lower confidence limit for a 10 % excess cancer risk (BMDL10) of 70 µg/kg b.w. per day for induction of liver haemangiosarcomas by lasiocarpine in male rats was calculated as the reference point for comparison with the estimated dietary exposure. The CONTAM Panel concluded that there is a possible health concern for those toddlers and children who are high consumers of honey. There is generally a low risk of PA poisoning in livestock and companion animals in the EU as most PA poisonings reported recently are due to accidental exposure.

The use of the root crop cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is constrained by its rapid deterioration after harvesting. Chemical and spectroscopic examination earlier revealed the accumulation of the four hydroxycoumarins esculetin, esculin, scopolin and scopoletin derived from the phenylpropanoid pathway, during the time course of postharvest deterioration. In this investigation the scopoletin level in parenchymal samples of four cassava cultivars used in Benin, i.e. Kpaki kpika, Kpaki soan, Logoguesse kotorou and BEN 86052, was investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).Presence was shown in all four varieties with a mean in fresh roots between 4.1 and 11.1 mg kg(-1) dry weight. A strong increase in the content of scopoletin was noticed after a peeling and drying process (6 days) for chip production, the mean content reaching 242.5 mg kg(-1) dry weight in the cultivar BEN 86052. After 3 months of storage this had decreased to 0.7 mg kg(-1) dry weight.Strong accumulation of scopoletin in cassava roots used for chip production in Benin is followed by a decrease in its concentration.

A new method that uses HPLC with a photochemical reactor for enhanced detection was developed and validated for the determination of aflatoxins in cassava flour. Samples were spiked with a mixture of four aflatoxins at 5, 10, and 20 microg/kg mixed with either 1 or 5 g NaCI and extracted with methanol-water (80 + 20, v/v) by shaking for 10 or 30 min. An immunoaffinity column was used for cleanup. HPLC with postcolumn derivatization, for enhancement of aflatoxin fluorescence, and fluorescence determination were used for quantitation of the toxin concentration. The method was validated for recovery, linearity, and precision at the three concentrations tested. Recovery ranges were 52-70, 69-85, and 80-89% for the spiking levels of 5.0, 10.0, and 20.0 microg/kg, respectively. It appears that the amount of salt (NaCl) and the shaking time are critical factors in this method; optimal performance was obtained when 1 g salt was used and the shaking time was 10 min. The good linearity and precision of the method allowed baseline separation from interferences, e.g., coumarins.

BACKGROUND: Feed contamination with mycotoxins is a major risk factor for animals and humans as several toxins can exist as residues in meat and milk products, giving rise to carry-over to consumers via ingestion of foods of animal origin. The starting point for prevention, in this chain, is to eliminate the growth of mycotoxigenic fungi in the animal forage. Ten plant extracts, recommended in Islamic medicine, were evaluated as antifungal agents against mycotoxigenic Aspergilli, i.e. Aspergillus flavus and A. ochraceus, growth in organic maize silage. RESULTS: Most extracts had remarkable antifungal activities using both qualitative and quantitative evaluation methods. Cress (Lepidium sativum) seed extract was proven to be the most powerful among the plants examined. Blending of the most effective extracts (garden cress seed, pomegranate peel and olive leaf extracts), individually at their minimal fungicidal concentrations, with maize silage resulted in the reduction of inoculated A. flavus colony counts by 99.9, 99.6 and 98.7%, respectively, whereas silage blending with the combined extracts completely prohibited fungal growth for up to 30 days of incubation under aerobic conditions. CONCLUSION: Besides the health promoting effects, silage blending with the bioactive plant extracts examined could lead to the required protection from pathogenic and mycotoxigenic fungi. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry

A number of retail shops in Copenhagen sell fresh cassava roots. Cassava roots contain the toxic cyanogenic glucoside linamarin. A survey was made of the shop characteristics, origin of the roots, buyers, shop owner's knowledge of toxicity levels, and actual toxicity levels.Shops selling fresh cassava were shown mostly to be owned by persons originating in the Middle East or Afghanistan, buyers were found to predominantly be of African origin, and sellers' knowledge concerning the potential toxicity was found to be very restricted. Seventy-six per cent of the roots purchased had a total cyanogenic potentials (CNp) above the 50 mg HCN equivalents kg(-1) dry weight (d.w.) proposed as acceptable by an EU working group. Two of 25 roots purchased had CNp higher than 340 mg HCN eq. kg(-1) d.w.The EU has previously made risk assessments concerning cassava and cyanogenic compounds. In the light of the conclusions drawn, the EU needs to make decisions about how to deal with the regulation and control of fresh cassava roots imported to the European food market. Also cassava root products and cassava leaves should be considered.

The cassava belt area in Southern Africa is experiencing an unforeseen surge in cassava production, processing and consumption. Little documentation exists on the effects of this surge on processing procedures, the prevailing levels of cyanogenic glucosides of products consumed and the levels of products commercially available on the market. Risk assessments disclose that effects harmful to the developing central nervous system (CNS) may be observed at a lower exposure than previously anticipated. We interviewed farmers in Zambia and Malawi about their cultivars, processing procedures and perceptions concerning cassava and chemical food safety. Chips, mixed biscuits and flour, procured from households and markets in three regions of Zambia (Luapula-North, Western and Southern) as well as products from the Northern, Central and Southern regions of Malawi, were analyzed for total cyanogenic potential (CNp). Processed products from Luapula showed a low CNp

A survey of methods for the qualitative and quantitative determination of cyanide and cyanogenic compounds is presented. Particular attention is paid to determination in complex matrices. Chromatographic methods able to separate mixtures of closely related structures, such as glycosides of enantiomeric hydroxynitriles or lipids with slightly differing fatty acid spectra, are included, as are highly selective methods of detection, such as enzymic post-column cleavage combined with electrochemical detection as used in high-performance liquid chromatography. Details of thin-layer chromatography, including methods for detection, are given for both straight-phase and reverse-phase systems. The survey includes simple field methods as well as automated laboratory methods for the determination of 'free', 'bound' and 'total' cyanide, for example in processed food products from Manihot esculenta Cranz. Sources of enzymes are listed and attention is given to problems of sample storage and preparation. References are given to review articles which include data from methods such as ultraviolet, infrared and proton and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies.

Passibiflorin, (1S,4R)-1-(β- d -glucopyranosyloxy)-4-(6-deoxy-β- d -gulopyranosyloxy)-2-cyclopentene-1-carbonitrile, was isolated from Passiflora colinvauxii endemic to the Galapagos Islands; the plant is only the second known source of passibiflorin. The glycoside was identified by spectroscopic methods. Some preparations of the plant material contained the corresponding amide, the structure of which was inferred from spectroscopic data and confirmed by chemical correlation with passibiflorin. Chemotaxonomic implications of the occurrence of bisglycosidic cyclopentanoids in Passiflora are briefly discussed.

Mucor circinelloides LU M40 and Penicillium aurantiogriseum P 35 produce extracellular beta-glycosidases that are active on the cyanogenic glycoside amygdalin. From the culture broths of M. circinelloides, only one beta-glycosidase could be identified, while two different enzymes - both having amygdalase activity - were found in culture broths of P. aurantiogriseum. The study of the mechanism of hydrolysis of the beta-bis-glycoside amygdalin with purified enzymes from the two organisms indicated a possible sequential (two-step) reaction. In all cases, the first step of hydrolysis from amygdalin to prunasin was very rapid, while the second step from prunasin to cyanohydrin was much slower. No cyanohydrin lyase activity was found in the culture broths of either fungus.

Pomegranate peel extract (PPE), a by-product of the pomegranate juice industry with potential health effects, was explored for use to fortify reconstituted apple juice in the concentration range 0.5 to 2.0% (w/w). Radical scavenging and antioxidative capacities of the fortified apple juices were evaluated using (i) electron spin resonance (ESR) to quantify their ability to scavenge the stable radical Fremy's salt and (ii) the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assay and compared to apple juice without fortification as control. The highest antioxidative capacity was found in the apple juice fortified with the highest percentage of pomegranate peel extract, while the optimal sensory quality was found by addition of 0.5 g PPE per 100 mL. The Artemia salina assay was used as a fast screening method for evaluating overall toxicity, and showed little toxicity with up to 1.0 g per 100 mL addition of PPE, but increasing toxicity at higher concentrations. Accordingly, it is important to balance addition of PPE, when used for enrichment of apple juice in order to obtain a healthier product, without compromising the sensorial quality or toxicological safety of the apple juice. Concentrations between 0.5 and 1.0 g PPE per 100 mL seem to be acceptable.

Grape seed extract (GSE), a by-product from the wine industry, was explored for its use as enrichment to mayonnaise, due to its potential health effects. Mayonnaises were enriched with 0 mg GSE per mL, 0.5 mg GSE per mL (similar to 0.050%), 0.9 mg GSE per mL (similar to 0.10%) and 1.4 mg GSE per mL (similar to 0.15%) during preparation and stored in the dark at room temperature for 8 weeks. The antioxidative capacity of the mayonnaises was evaluated by their ability to scavenge the stable radical TEMPO by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. The oxidative stability of the mayonnaises was determined by the content of lipid hydroperoxides (peroxide value, POV), the content of conjugated diene hydroperoxides and the content of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). The highest antioxidative capacity and the lowest content of lipid hydroperoxides and TBARS were found in the mayonnaise with the highest percentage of GSE (0.15%). Therefore, the oxidative stability of the mayonnaises enriched with GSE was slightly improved through storage. However, mayonnaise without GSE had the highest sensorial acceptability compared to mayonnaise enriched with GSE. In the Artemia salina assay, a fast screening method for overall toxicity, the death rate of brine shrimps larvae was found to increase for increasing percentage of GSE. A level of 0.05% GSE in mayonnaise is concluded not to constitute any toxicological risks, but to provide significant protection against oxidation during storage.

Pomegranate peel powder (PP), a by-product of the pomegranate juice industry rich in polyphenols, was explored for use in bread production, due to its potential health effects. Wheat bread was prepared using different levels for replacement of flour with PP (0 to 10 g per 100 g flour) resulting in antioxidant levels expressed as Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity values (TEAC) ranging from 1.8 to 6.8 μmol TEAC per g bread for fresh bread. TEAC remained constant during 5 days of storage in polyethylene bags at room temperature. The oxidative stability was evaluated by detection of radicals by direct electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy, and peroxide value, and the highest capacity of scavenging of radicals (Fremy's salt) and the lowest content of peroxide values were found in bread with the highest percentage of PP. Safety evaluation was performed by the Artemia salina assay. An increased death rate of the brine shrimp larvae was found as a function of the replacement of wheat flour with PP in fortified bread providing a general screening method for the toxicological test of polyphenol fortified bread to be recommended for use in product development in addition to subjective evaluation. Based on both toxicological and subjective evaluations an addition of 2.5% PP is recommended for the actual product.

EFSA has been asked to provide scientific advice in relation to possible divergences between the conclusions of the EFSA Scientific Opinion on Bisphenol A of September 2010 and those in the ANSES reports on BPA published in September 2011. The EFSA CEF Panel has analysed whether the ANSES report "Effets sanitaires du bisphenol A" contains any elements that would necessitate a revision of the EFSA opinion. The approach of the ANSES report is that of hazard identification, comprising also elements which could be relevant for the safety assessment of non-dietary exposure to BPA, whereas the EFSA opinion of 2010 addresses the assessment of risk from dietary exposure to BPA. This is the main reason for divergences between the ANSES and EFSA conclusions on BPA. The Panel overall considers that the information in the ANSES report does not change the views that the Panel expressed in 2010. To further investigate the divergences between the conclusions of ANSES in 2011 and those of EFSA in 2010 and to identify the relevant uncertainties in the data, the CEF Panel has undertaken a preliminary review of the new literature emerging on BPA. For most endpoints, the Panel considers that there is no new information that would change the views of the Panel of 2010. In 2010 the Panel noted that some studies conducted on developing animals suggest certain BPA-related effects which were not sufficiently convincing to use as pivotal effects for risk assessment, but which the Panel considered could be of possible toxicological relevance. Since then, additional studies related to these effects have become available, indicating effects of BPA in rodents at dose levels below the current NOAEL of 5 mg/kg bw/day. Uncertainties regarding the relevance to humans of these toxicological effects remain to be clarified. The Panel would need more time to review in depth these new studies. The Panel will reconsider its opinion following further evaluations of new studies and of new data from ongoing low dose studies.EFSA has been asked to provide scientific advice in relation to possible divergences between the conclusions of the EFSA Scientific Opinion on Bisphenol A of September 2010 and those in the ANSES reports on BPA published in September 2011. The EFSA CEF Panel has analysed whether the ANSES report "Effets sanitaires du bisphenol A" contains any elements that would necessitate a revision of the EFSA opinion. The approach of the ANSES report is that of hazard identification, comprising also elements which could be relevant for the safety assessment of non-dietary exposure to BPA, whereas the EFSA opinion of 2010 addresses the assessment of risk from dietary exposure to BPA. This is the main reason for divergences between the ANSES and EFSA conclusions on BPA. The Panel overall considers that the information in the ANSES report does not change the views that the Panel expressed in 2010. To further investigate the divergences between the conclusions of ANSES in 2011 and those of EFSA in 2010 and to identify the relevant uncertainties in the data, the CEF Panel has undertaken a preliminary review of the new literature emerging on BPA. For most endpoints, the Panel considers that there is no new information that would change the views of the Panel of 2010. In 2010 the Panel noted that some studies conducted on developing animals suggest certain BPA-related effects which were not sufficiently convincing to use as pivotal effects for risk assessment, but which the Panel considered could be of possible toxicological relevance. Since then, additional studies related to these effects have become available, indicating effects of BPA in rodents at dose levels below the current NOAEL of 5 mg/kg bw/day. Uncertainties regarding the relevance to humans of these toxicological effects remain to be clarified. The Panel would need more time to review in depth these new studies. The Panel will reconsider its opinion following further evaluations of new studies and of new data from ongoing low dose studies.EFSA has been asked to provide scientific advice in relation to possible divergences between the conclusions of the EFSA Scientific Opinion on Bisphenol A of September 2010 and those in the ANSES reports on BPA published in September 2011. The EFSA CEF Panel has analysed whether the ANSES report "Effets sanitaires du bisphenol A" contains any elements that would necessitate a revision of the EFSA opinion. The approach of the ANSES report is that of hazard identification, comprising also elements which could be relevant for the safety assessment of non-dietary exposure to BPA, whereas the EFSA opinion of 2010 addresses the assessment of risk from dietary exposure to BPA. This is the main reason for divergences between the ANSES and EFSA conclusions on BPA. The Panel overall considers that the information in the ANSES report does not change the views that the Panel expressed in 2010. To further investigate the divergences between the conclusions of ANSES in 2011 and those of EFSA in 2010 and to identify the relevant uncertainties in the data, the CEF Panel has undertaken a preliminary review of the new literature emerging on BPA. For most endpoints, the Panel considers that there is no new information that would change the views of the Panel of 2010. In 2010 the Panel noted that some studies conducted on developing animals suggest certain BPA-related effects which were not sufficiently convincing to use as pivotal effects for risk assessment, but which the Panel considered could be of possible toxicological relevance. Since then, additional studies related to these effects have become available, indicating effects of BPA in rodents at dose levels below the current NOAEL of 5 mg/kg bw/day. Uncertainties regarding the relevance to humans of these toxicological effects remain to be clarified. The Panel would need more time to review in depth these new studies. The Panel will reconsider its opinion following further evaluations of new studies and of new data from ongoing low dose studies.

This scientific opinion of EFSA deals with the risk assessment of the monomer a-dimethyl-3-(4'-hydroxy-3'-methoxyphenyl)propylsilyloxy,u-3-dimethyl-3-(4'-hydroxy-3'-methoxyphenyl)propylsilyl polydimethylsiloxane, n=26-50, CAS No. 156065-00-8, REF. No. 16265, FCM substance No. 874, for which the CEF Panel concluded that there is no safety concern for the consumer if the substance is only used as comonomer in siloxane modified polycarbonate,and its migration is up to 0.05 mg/kg food. The end-capper eugenol must comply with the restriction on migration set in Commission Regulation (EU) No 10/2011

The molluscicidal principles of Ethulia conyzoides were identified as ethuliacoumarin A (1) and isoethuliacoumarin A (2). Ethuliacoumarin A possessed an LC90 between 19 and 23.5 ppm depending on the age of the snail against Biomphalaria glabrata, and between 12 and 15 ppm against Bulinus truncatus. In addition, ethuliacoumarin A was found to be cercaricidal at 25 ppm and ovicidal. Ethuliacoumarin has the structural requirements considered essential for anticoagulant activity. Consequently the anticoagulant dicumarol (4) was tested and found to be molluscicidal in the range from 2.5 to 10 ppm. In contrast, the coumarin anticoagulant warfarin (3) did not show molluscicidal activity.

A new cyanogenic glycoside isolated from pods of Acacia sieberiana var. woodii has been shown by chemical and spectroscopic methods to be (2S)-2-[(6-O-α- l -arabinopyranosyl-β- d -glucopyranosyl)oxy]-3-methylbut-3-enenitrileo. Acid-catalysed hydrolysis of the glycoside afforded arabinose and proacacipetalin, and base-catalysed double-bond migration gave 2- [(6-O-α- l -arabinopyranosyl-β- d -glucopyranosyl)oxy ]-3-methylbut-2-enenitrile.

In this new design of the picrate test (Guignard Method) for small scale cyanide determination under field conditions, hydrolysis of the cyanogenic compounds is catalysed by ‘β-glucuronidase’, a commercial enzyme preparation from Helix pomatia. The method described facilitates the quantification of small amounts of cyanogenic compounds in plant material, with a detection limit about 60 ng of released HCN (equivalent to 1μg of amygdalin). False positive tests produced by hydrolysis products of glucosinolates could be excluded by inhibition of the myrosinae enzyme system present in plants that contain glucosinolates. The total weight of equipment needed for a total of 1000 determinations (in groups of eight) does not exceed 500 g, thus making the method convenient for field work.