Analytical methods for contaminants in food have evolved over the last few decades to push the limits of detection from parts per million (ppm) down to parts per billion (ppb), and in some cases even lower. While methods “race towards zero” in terms of the ability to detect chemical contaminants, risk managers need to adapt to this new environment by creating new processes for evaluating whether the detection of trace amounts of these compounds pose a risk that requires management. These challenges impact individuals across the risk assessment process: from the analytical chemists that are challenged to develop methods that are fit for the purpose of risk assessment; to hazard assessors who are looking to methods such as application of the Threshold of Toxicological Concern (TTC) to help evaluate trace chemicals; to risk managers that need to incorporate the information from the other areas when they build risk management programs. Only through a cooperative effort and the use of new ideas will these different functional areas be able to build effective programs that ensure the safety of consumers without committing undue resources towards chasing zero.

Presentations