94. The 31st CCFAC agreed that the maximum level of 5 mg/kg for Ochratoxin A in Cereals and Cereal products be circulated for comments at step 3, including suggestions for sampling plans. The Committee also requested JECFA to perform a risk assessment on the levels of 5 and 20 mg/kg of Ochratoxin A in cereals and cereal products.[51] The Committee noted that Ochratoxin A was scheduled for re-evaluation by JECFA at its 56th meeting in February 2001.
95. The delegation of Germany offered to provide JECFA with new data regarding intake and actual levels of Ochratoxin A in cereals, flours and bread, which strongly indicated that the maximum level should not be higher than 5 mg/kg. The need for intake assessment to take account of levels found in other foods such as coffee, beer and wine was also noted.
96. The Committee decided to return the proposed draft maximum level of 5 mg/kg Ochratoxin A in Cereals and Cereal Products to Step 3 for additional comment on seasonal and annual variation with a view to strengthening the data base to evaluate the proposed draft maximum level (see Appendix X).
