FDA Propses "Action Level" for Arsenic in Apple Juice

The FDA has proposed an "action level" for arsenic in apple juice. This level, 10 parts per billion (ppb) is the same level that the EPA set for arsenic in drinking water.

The agency stresses that the levels of arsenic in apple juice are very low, but that by setting an action level, they are hoping to prevent public exposure to occasional lots that contain arsenic levels above those permitted in drinking water.

The action level is designed to act as guidance to the apple juice industry. The FDA will take the action level into account when considering enforcement action if it finds that a product exceeds the allowed level of arsenic.

Inorganic arsenic may be found in food because it is present in the environment, both as a naturally occurring mineral and due to past use of pesticides containing arsenic. Arsenic is a known carcinogen and has also been linked to skin lesions, developmental problems, cardiovascular disease, neurotoxicity and diabetes.

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