FDA scientists have two methods for monitoring inorganic Arsenic in apple cider. To measure arsenic total, the FDA scientists first use inductively coupled mass and spectrometry. The second method is speciation analysis. This determines the relative amount inorganic or organic arsenic present in the sample. The former method is more sensitive to low levels of arsenic, while the latter is more sensitive at higher concentrations.
Sources for inorganic arsenic found in apple juice
Low levels of inorganic Arsenic are found in apple juice, which can have toxic effects. Food and Drug Administration, however, has advised consumers to be aware and take preventative measures to reduce the risk of arsenic. The agency is currently monitoring imported juices and has ordered 90 samples be tested by year's close. It also responded to requests from consumer groups for more stringent limits on heavy elements in apple products.
The FDA's surveillance of arsenic-containing foods found that apples had very low levels of arsenic as compared with other fruits, vegetables, and vegetables. However, some organic species of arsenic have shown toxicity in animal studies, such as dimethylarsinic acid (DMAV). Although DMAV is carcinogenic in rats, these studies were based on animal studies. Human metabolic differences may also be involved.
Carcinogenicity of inorganic arsenic
While it is unclear how much inorganic arsenic is in apple juice, there are some studies that suggest it is not carcinogenic. A study of 168 preschoolers showed that 11% consumed 12 ounces per day. That equates to 3.5 mg of iAs per day. This study shows that a high arsenic end rate could increase the average daily intake by 39 to 78%. FDA has set a juice limit of 10 ppb. This allows for background exposure at a vulnerable time in a person's life.
The FDA is currently monitoring levels for inorganic azarenic in various foods. The agency has proposed action levels for arsenic in rice and fruit juices, but these levels have not been implemented yet. While the FDA has issued a warning letter to the apple juice manufacturer in 2012, it has not yet developed enforceable standards for the levels of arsenic in apple juice.
EPA limit on inorganic arsenic levels in drinking water
The EPA established a limit for the inorganic arsenic level in apple juice and water. This is based on a study of 94 samples. The EPA estimates that arsenic content in a person's water is less then 10 parts per million. However, some consumer groups feel that the limit should rise.
The FDA previously conducted an earlier survey of the levels in organic arsenic found in apple products. The majority of these samples fell below the EPA level for inorganic arcsenic. There were four cases where total arsenic was higher than the limit.
Arsenic, a toxic element, has been used to poison people for thousands of years. Even small amounts can be fatal. It has been linked to bladder, lung, and skin cancers. It can increase your risk of developing immune deficiency and heart disease.