A survey by the BfR Federal Institute for Risk Assessment found that mould toxins in food are not destroyed during cooking or baking. The survey also revealed gaps in knowledge about mould and its potential health risks, with many people unaware that mycotoxins can occur in food without visible signs of mould.
The BfR conducts health risk assessments for food, feed, chemicals, and products, providing scientific advice to federal governments. The institute's research-driven approach informs consumer health protection policies both domestically and internationally.
The BfR Federal Institute for Risk Assessment investigates how PFAS enter food via feed, drinking water, and soil. High concentrations of PFAS in the body have been linked to increased blood lipid levels and liver enzyme elevations. The magazine also explores other topics such as omega-3 fatty acids, raw milk, and food colour safety.
The BfR2GO magazine now offers up-to-date information on consumer health protection and laboratory animal protection. Readers can subscribe to the digital or printed edition for free of charge.
A new children's book from the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment aims to educate kids about food safety, highlighting common pathogens like Campylobacter. The book provides tips on how to avoid cross-contamination and stay safe in the kitchen.
The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment presents a strategic research agenda for safe advanced materials, covering areas like data collection and state-of-the-art laboratories equipment. The initiative aims to inform policy makers and innovators on regulatory relevant research needs for safer materials.
The BfR Federal Institute for Risk Assessment is signing the Diversity Charter, a nationwide initiative promoting diversity in the workplace. The 'Year of Diversity' aims to anchor diversity and inclusion in everyday working life through participatory activities and regular dialogue.
The BfR children's book aims to educate children from grade 1 upwards about the dangers of contaminated food and how to avoid cross-contamination. The book features colorful illustrations and teaches kids how to defeat 'Campys' and other bacteria and viruses.
The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) is launching a new study module to investigate the influence of parental nutrition on children's eating habits. The study aims to provide insights into how plant-based diets of parents affect the eating habits and food consumption of children.
The BfR is part of a nationwide interdisciplinary surveillance system, OHIS, to monitor antibiotic resistance. The goal is to identify trends and develop targeted measures.
The BfR Federal Institute for Risk Assessment warns of flawed scientific studies and advises critical evaluation. Experts emphasize the need to consider study results in context, as laboratory tests on cells cannot be directly applied to humans.
The Hepatitis E virus has been found to be transmissible between rats and humans, with cases reported in Germany. The virus is primarily transmitted through contaminated food products from pigs and game animals, but its transmission via rat feces is still being investigated.
According to the BfR Consumer Monitor, only 10% of respondents expressed concern about raw milk's health risk. Raw milk can transmit pathogens, posing a risk to vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Healthy adults also face an increased risk of mild to severe food poisoning from unboiled raw milk.
The BfR emphasizes that vitamins and minerals are essential but unnecessary additional intake can lead to health issues. The institute also discusses various health risks associated with food supplements, including plant-based ingredients.
The BfR Summer Academy, an international event, brings together 23 participants from 17 countries to discuss food safety and risk assessment. Participants learn about the legal and institutional background of food safety in Germany and Europe.
The BfR conference discusses the role of microorganisms in food production, focusing on both beneficial and pathogenic properties. The event explores topics such as E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and the importance of food microbiology in ensuring public health.
A new clinical study by the BfR found that tattoo ink contains smaller amounts of liquid components than previously thought. The researchers were able to detect metabolites in blood samples shortly after tattooing began and showed that metabolism functions differently when substances are taken up through the skin.
Dr Tewes Tralau is a renowned biologist with extensive experience in scientific management and risk communication, succeeding Professor Dr Tanja Schwerdtle as Vice-President of the BfR. He aims to contribute significantly to ensuring the BfR remains an internationally recognized reference for consumer protection.
According to hygiene expert Dr. Heidi Wichmann-Schauer, small negligence in everyday life can transfer pathogens to food, causing serious illnesses and fatalities, especially among vulnerable groups. The BfR advises proper kitchen cleanliness, handwashing, and cooking meat thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination.
The BfR exhibition at Grüne Woche focuses on the importance of kitchen hygiene, highlighting the risks of foodborne infections. Visitors can explore an interactive world of bacteria through games and quizzes to minimize health risks by adopting simple hygiene practices.
The BfR is seeking experts from biochemistry, medicine, toxicology, pharmacology, statistics, and sociology to advise on risk assessment issues. The selected scientists will contribute their expertise to the commissions for a four-year term.
The BfR2GO issue highlights Campylobacter as a common pathogen behind foodborne infections in Germany, emphasizing proper food handling. The magazine provides an overview of kitchen hygiene and includes a pull-out poster with essential tips.
According to the BfR Consumer Monitor, 56% of Germans are familiar with melatonin supplements, but opinions on their use are divided. The survey also found that many people are concerned about microplastics in food and antibiotic resistance, with 68% and 62% expressing high concern respectively.
A study by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment found that micro- and nanoplastics can be taken up by human cells, particularly those in the small intestine and liver. The absorption of these particles is influenced by their size and chemical properties.
A German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) study published in Food Microbiology found that coronaviruses on glass are stable but can be inactivated through conventional rinsing processes. Commercial dish washing detergents and manual glass washers were shown to effectively remove coronaviruses from drinking glasses.
The BfR has developed a novel testing strategy to detect ciguatoxins in fish, which enables the reliable identification of seafood poisoning cases. This method combines cell-based assay tests and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for precise detection.
A BfR study confirms that perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) does not accumulate excessively in human lung and kidney tissue. Only one sample contained a measurable PFBA value, supporting the conclusion that PFBA is unlikely to cause health problems.
The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has proposed a research-based concept to identify chemical combinations with potential health effects. The concept aims to provide a feasible approach to identify potentially health-relevant mixtures and background exposures across regulatory silos.
An international research project, funded by DFG, explores how governments, health institutions, and media communicate about COVID-19, analyzing its effects on the population. The study aims to identify effective risk and crisis communication strategies for better public understanding of pandemic risks.
The E-Morph test uses artificial intelligence to identify substances that can have oestrogen-like effects on breast cells. This method has the potential to replace animal experiments currently required for detecting hormone-like effects.
The BfR has developed a digital tool to track product contamination sources, while strategies for reducing Salmonella and Campylobacter infections are discussed. Viral foodborne diseases like hepatitis E and A are also on the agenda.
Research highlights the dangers of fumigated containers, which can release harmful substances into the air if not handled properly. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment warns that these risks can be exposed to consumers and retail personnel who come in contact with contaminated products.
A study by the Julius Kühn Institute and BfR found antimicrobial-resistant bacteria with multiple transferable resistance genes on fresh produce, including mixed salads, arugula, and cilantro. Consumers can minimize risk by washing raw vegetables thoroughly and considering heat treatment for immunocompromised individuals.
A mathematical model by BfR reveals that publishing all studies, regardless of results, accelerates knowledge acquisition and reduces unnecessary follow-up studies. Using more test animals in a single experiment increases the likelihood of achieving correct and reproducible results.
A new special issue of Bundesgesundheitsblatt explores the prevalence, benefits, and risks of breastfeeding in Germany. The study highlights the positive effects of breastfeeding for both mother and child, including reduced risk of respiratory infections and overweight/Type 2 diabetes.
Research by BfR scientists reveals that inflammatory processes disrupt liver enzyme function, impairing detoxification capabilities. Fatty liver cells treated with inflammation-promoting substances showed reduced ability to break down foreign substances.
Experts emphasize need for standardized quality review, transparent data sharing and greater stakeholder involvement in risk assessment. Workshop participants agree on importance of harmonized system for efficient regulation.
A new epidemiological study of US data found no significant connection between glyphosate use and cancer incidence, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The results suggest caution regarding possible associations with acute myeloid leukemia.
A BfR study reveals specific research fields in need of new alternative methods, such as investigating and treating human diseases like cancer and hypertension. The EU-wide solution aims to enhance transparency and promote the development of alternative methods for more animal welfare.
A German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment study found that people perceive synthetic substances and heavy metals as greater health risks than natural contaminants like mercury and dioxin. Awareness about lesser-known contaminants like pyrrolizidine alkaloids and arsenic is low, particularly among younger populations.
The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) and two other organizations will attend the GAIN Annual Convention to promote careers in departmental research. The event offers job opportunities and networking platforms for young German academics.
The Bundesgesundheitsblatt special issue explores the assessment strategies for possible health risks posed by contaminants in food, including dioxins, PFAS, nano and micro materials, and metals. The study highlights the need for regular updates to understanding the risks due to changing environmental conditions and industrial processes.
The NANOaers project investigates airborne nanoparticle mixtures and their impact on respiratory health. Researchers analyze the behavior of nanoparticles with other chemicals, aiming to predict their fate and potential health effects.
The RESET and MedVet-Staph networks have investigated the development, spread, and mechanisms of resistance to antibiotics in humans and animals. Key findings include widespread occurrence of ESBL- or AmpC-producing E. coli in livestock and increasing hospital-acquired infections with these enterobacteria.
The BfR has developed two digital tools, RITOPS and PERCOW, to estimate the transfer of undesirable substances in animal feeds to foods of animal origin. These tools simulate the toxicokinetic behaviour of PFAS in animals and estimate contaminant levels in milk, eggs, and pork.
The scientific community has established criteria for identifying endocrine disruptors, which will inform regulatory decisions on substances affecting human health. The principles focus on substance effects on the endocrine system and adverse health outcomes.
The BfR has updated its joint research strategy to focus on application-safe and environmentally friendly nanomaterials development and use. The new approach aims to ensure sustainable material use across the entire life cycle, from production to disposal.