The European Union has significantly tightened food safety regulations affecting psyllium husk imports. For Indian exporters and EU buyers alike, understanding these requirements is no longer optional — it is a prerequisite for market access.

MOAH/MOSH: Mineral Oil Hydrocarbon Limits

Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH) and Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons (MOSH) are contaminants that can enter agricultural products through multiple pathways: mechanical lubricants used in processing equipment, printing inks on jute bags and packaging materials, and batching oils used in traditional seed storage. MOAH compounds are classified as suspected genotoxic and carcinogenic.

The EU's Rapid Alert System (RASFF) has already flagged psyllium products. In 2025, psyllium husk powder was withdrawn from the German market specifically due to MOAH contamination (RASFF Notification 2025.6476). The EU has since enacted strict maximum residue limits, and enforcement is active.

Compliant testing requires LC-GC-FID analytical methods following European standards EN 16995 and JRC guidelines. At Sigma Global, MOAH/MOSH screening is included as standard for all EU-destined shipments, with limits of less than 0.5 mg/kg MOAH and less than 2.0 mg/kg MOSH.

PFAS-Free Packaging: The August 2026 Deadline

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces strict limits on Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in food-contact packaging, effective August 12, 2026. The limits are clear:

  • 25 ppb for any single PFAS compound
  • 250 ppb for total PFAS
  • 50 ppm total fluorine

This affects all packaging materials in the supply chain — inner liners, HDPE bags, and FIBC bulk bags. Sigma Global has proactively ensured all food-contact packaging is independently certified PFAS-free, meeting the EU PPWR requirements.

Irradiation Labelling Under Directive 1999/2/EC

Gamma irradiation is the gold standard for microbial reduction in psyllium, but EU regulations require specific labelling for irradiated food products. Under Directive 1999/2/EC, products treated with ionising radiation must carry the statement "treated with ionising radiation" on packaging, and the processing facility must be EU-approved.

For EU food manufacturers and clean-label brands where irradiation labelling may be undesirable, steam treatment (autoclaving at 121–124°C) provides an effective alternative. Sigma Global offers both sterilization options with full compliance guidance for each market.

How Sigma Global Supports EU Buyers

Our EU compliance package includes:

  • MOAH/MOSH screening on every EU-destined shipment
  • PFAS-free packaging certification
  • Dual sterilization options (gamma or steam) with appropriate labelling guidance
  • Full COA covering all parameters required by EU food safety standards
  • Phytosanitary and certificate of origin documentation
Contact us at sales@sigmaglobal.co.in to discuss your EU import requirements.