Ensure MOSH-MOAH compliance with Gold Standard Extra Virgin Olive Oil by Wikifarmer—certified chemical analyses for safe, high-quality bulk EVOO sourcing.
What are MOSH and MOAH?
Mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH) are a diverse group of chemical compounds primarily derived from crude oil, though they can also be synthesized from coal, natural gas, and biomass. MOH is categorized into two main types: Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons (MOSH) and Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH).
These compounds can enter food products, including olive oil, through various sources such as machinery lubricants, processing aids, additives, migration from food packaging materials, or environmental contamination. Key food categories often associated with MOSH/MOAH contamination include vegetable oils, cereals, baby food, and chocolate.
MOSH and MOAH in olive oil
Olive oil may be contaminated at various stages of its production, including harvesting, processing, and packaging. Common causes include:
Due to better production practices, Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) generally has lower levels of MOSH-MOAH contamination. In contrast, olive pomace oils, which are made using solvent-based methods, are more susceptible to contamination.
According to EFSA, the potential impact of mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH) on human health varies significantly. Mineral oil-saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH), which tend to accumulate in the liver and lymphoid tissues, are not considered a public health concern at current levels of dietary exposure. However, certain types of mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) may contain genotoxic compounds capable of damaging cellular DNA and potentially causing cancer. For such substances, no safe exposure level can be determined.
To address these concerns, the European Union has proposed new limits for MOSH and MOAH in olive oil. Starting in 2026, these regulations will phase in stricter limits, with full implementation by 2030. More specifically, the proposition suggests 2 mg/kg of MOAH and 15mg/kg of MOSH.
Producers are encouraged to follow best practices outlined in upcoming guidelines to ensure compliance and enhance the safety and quality of olive oil products.
As regulations become more stringent, bulk olive oil buyers are prioritizing safe sourcing. Ensuring compliance with MOSH-MOAH limits has become a critical part of quality assurance. To support B2B olive oil buyers, Wikifarmer has developed an innovative tool that simplifies sourcing and guarantees uncompromising quality, the Gold Standard Extra Virgin Olive Oil. With just a few clicks, buyers of the b2b olive oil market can access comprehensive chemical analyses performed by a globally recognized laboratory.
This service offers detailed reports on the chemical profile of bulk extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), ensuring it meets or exceeds all proposed regulatory standards. Buyers gain confidence in their purchasing decisions, backed by scientific data and quality assurance.
By choosing Gold Standard Extra Virgin Olive Oil, businesses can elevate their sourcing process, ensuring compliance with the highest safety standards while delivering premium-quality olive oil to their customers.