The discovery of high levels of carcinogenic aflatoxins in Brazil nuts imported from Brazil have led the European Commission to impose tough conditions on their sale into the European Union.


Levels more than 100 times the legal maximum level have been discovered. Also an investigation by the Commission’s Food and Veterinary Office has “revealed shortcomings in the production chain and control systems intended to prevent aflatoxin contamination in Brazil nuts intended for export to the EU.”


 As a result, the Commission is now insisting on the certification by Brazil of all consignments and an additional check by the importing EU Member State. Also, only designated entry ports may be used.