Press Release: EFSA sets lower tolerable intake level for cadmium in food

Cadmium is a heavy metal which enters the environment from natural sources, such as volcanic emissions and the weathering of rocks, as well as from industry and agriculture. It is found in the air, soil and water and can subsequently accumulate in plants and animals. The European Food Safety Authority’s Panel on contaminants in the food chain, in March 2009, set a reduced tolerable weekly intake (TWI) for cadmium of 2.5 micrograms per kilogram of body weight, based on an analysis of new data.