Dioxin Testing from ALcontrol

FSA Warning
Following the Irish Government's announcement that it is recalling all pork products made in the Irish Republic since September after dioxins were found in slaughtered pigs that are thought to have eaten contaminated feed, the Food Standards Agency is advising consumers not to eat pork or pork products, such as sausages, bacon, salami and ham, which are labelled as being from the Irish Republic or Northern Ireland. This precautionary advice had been issued while it continues to investigate whether any products contaminated with dioxins have been distributed in the UK.

What are Dioxins?
Dioxins and polychlorinated biphenols (PCBs) are chemicals that get into our food from the environment. They have no immediate effect on our health but can cause problems if they are absorbed into our bodies at high levels for long periods.

Foods high in animal fat, such as milk, meat, fish and eggs (and foods produced with them) are the main source of dioxins and PCBs although all foods contain at least low levels of these chemicals.

The risk to health comes from eating food with high levels of dioxins and PCBs over a sustained period. They have been shown to cause a wide range of effects in certain animals, including cancer and damage to the immune and reproductive systems, although it may be that people are less sensitive.

We can help
In the light of this situation, ALcontrol would like to take the opportunity to inform you that we are able to offer a Dioxin and PCB testing service and are available to assist if you are affected by this situation. We are able to provide you with guidance, legislative levels and regulatory information. If you would like further details then please do not hesitate to call Mr Martin Hemingway, Laboratory Support Scientist, on Tel: +44(0)1709 369699.

For Dioxin enquiries please email:

dioxins@alcontrol.com