Maximum residue levels for Chlorate and Perchlorate in food

Update on the evaluation of chlorate and perchlorate as undesirable substances in foodstuff

August 2025 (update).Since the publication of the relevant EU Regulation 2020, maximum residue levels for perchlorate and chlorate residues in foodstuffs have been applicable in accordance with Regulation (EU) 396/2005 and Regulation (EU) 2023/915. Previously, the evaluation for chlorate was done in a case-by-case analysis and for perchlorate only reference values were stipulated.

Residues of perchlorate and chlorate can often be detected in a wide range of concentrations in foodstuff. Both substances are chlorine compounds that are undesirable in food due to their toxicological relevance. For perchlorate, mainly fruits, vegetables, tea, herbal infusions and infant food are affected. Chlorate, however, is found in the whole range of food but especially in processed food. This is due to the fact that chlorate is a common byproduct of many frequently used chlorine-based disinfectants.

An update to the EFSA opinion on perchlorate from May 2025 found no potential health risk from dietary exposure to perchlorate at the established TDI of 1.4 µg/kg bw.

You can view the respective regulations here:

How we assist you in handling the maximum levels

The Eurofins laboratories for food and feed testing in Germany offer tests for all types of food with a single method for chlorate/perchlorate using LC-MS/MS.

Check whether you have already included chlorate and perchlorate in your QS monitoring plan. If not, we recommend having your products analysed by us on a representative sample basis to get an impression of the current residue situation.

Please contact your analytical service manager or our expert Johannes Jaschik to receive your individual offer.