June 19, 2025
New European Legislation Nickel
On 1 July 2025, new European legislation will come into force that will regulate the presence of nickel in food more strictly. This step is part of a broader approach by the European Union to limit exposure to heavy metals through food and thus protect public health.
What is nickel?
Nickel is a naturally occurring metal in the soil, but it also comes from industrial sources such as fertilisers, irrigation water, air deposition or packaging materials. Crops absorb nickel from the soil, and in some areas — for example, near industry or in heavily fertilised agricultural land — levels may be elevated.
Although nickel does not pose a direct danger in low quantities, it is a risk factor for sensitive individuals, such as people with nickel allergies or nickel-sensitive eczema. That is why the EU is tightening the standards.
What does the legislation entail?
From 1 July 2025, the following will apply:
Maximum residue limits (MRLs).
Mandatory analyses of nickel levels.
Stricter rules for imports from third countries, where the risk of exceedances is greater.
Monitoring and reporting obligations for national supervisory authorities such as the NVWA.
The exact limits vary per product category and are based on European risk assessments (EFSA).
To which products does this apply?
The new limits apply to, among other things:
Fruit and vegetables (potatoes, vegetables and fruit)
Cereals and cereal products
Nuts and seeds
Cocoa and chocolate products
Seaweed and algae-based products
Baby and toddler food
Fruit juices and vegetable drinks
What does this mean for you?
If you are active in the fruit and vegetable sector and the food sector, it is essential to prepare for this regulation
- 1
Analyze
Have products analysed for nickel levels in good time.
- 2
Documentation
Ensure proper documentation of growing conditions and origin.
- 3
Working together
Work with laboratories, such as Normec Groen Agro Control, that are accredited for trace element analyses.
- 4
Inform and adjust
Inform your chain partners and adjust contract terms if necessary.
Nickel sensitivity and consumer safety
For consumers, this law means an extra guarantee of food safety. In particular, people with a nickel allergy or hypersensitivity will now be better protected through food, a source of nickel that has been overlooked until now.
Would you like to have nickel tested?
Via Normec you can submit a request to have your products tested for nickel, lead, cadmium and heavy metals.
Prepare for 1 July 2025 – avoid surprises and comply with the new standards.