Chemical exposure

In the area of chemistry and exposure, assessments of human exposure to chemical substances are an integrated part of many research projects at the National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark.

By comparing the human exposure assessments with toxicological values such as the co-called Acceptable Daily Intake, ADI, the National Food Institute can on a scientific basis evaluate and assess whether a certain chemical constitutes a health risk for humans.

To develop population-based exposure assessment the National Food Institute generates research results for residue contents in the different food items. Using various modelling tools, the institute combines these results with knowledge on dietary habits for different groups in the population.

On this background the exposure calculation is performed. However, it is crucial and very important to be aware of the purpose of the calculation and the quality of the input values. Is the purpose to calculate the exposure for the whole population or only children?

In research on human exposure, a deterministic approach using one value for the intake of a food item and a single value for the content of food per individual has normally been used. However, the methods continuously need to be developed and, at the same time, the use of probabilistic modelling is increasing. Using such methods a greater utilization of all data for intake and content is achieved.

Collaboration

Danish Veterinary and Food Administration 
University of Copenhagen