MOSH-POSH/MOAH Assay

What are MOSH, POSH and MOAH?

MOSH ( Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons ), POSH ( Polyolefin Oligomeric Saturated Hydrocarbons ), and MOAH ( Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons ) are compounds derived from mineral oils or plastic manufacturing residues. These hydrocarbons can migrate into food or cosmetics, particularly dry and oily products.

• MOSH: long-chain saturated hydrocarbons, derived from technical or food-grade mineral oils.
• POSH: saturated oligomers derived from polymers (PE, PP) that can migrate from plastic packaging.
• MOAH: potentially genotoxic and carcinogenic aromatic fraction, closely monitored by health authorities.

Why measure MOSH/MOAH/POSH hydrocarbons?

The analysis of these hydrocarbons is crucial for:

• Identify the sources of contamination (technical oils, inks, recycled packaging, etc.)
• Assess the health risks, particularly those related to the presence of MOAH in food or cosmetics
• Ensuring compliance with European recommendations (EFSA, BfR, Food Packaging Forum)
• Meeting the requirements of distributors or quality labels (organic, clean beauty, etc.)
• Controlling the risks of migration from packaging materials (especially recycled materials)

MOAHs are suspected of having genotoxic effects even at low doses, hence a zero tolerance recommended by some authorities, particularly for infant products or cooking oils.

Recommended analytical method: LC-GC-FID

The assay is performed according to the reference method LC-GC-FID (liquid chromatography coupled to gas chromatography with flame ionization detection):

• Pre-separation by LC to separate the MOSH / MOAH / POSH fractions
• Automatic injection in GC-FID for specific quantification
• Method validated by the Food Packaging Forum, EFSA, BfR and other European bodies
• Quantification limits are in the range of 0.5 to 2 mg/kg, depending on the matrix and preparation

This technique guarantees good reproducibility, precise separation and reliable quantification of the different families of hydrocarbons.

Affected matrices

The test applies to many risk matrices:

• Food packaging (recycled cardboard, bags, plastic films, lids)
• Dry or fatty foods: cereals, rice, cocoa, chocolate, vegetable oils
• Cosmetic powders (makeup, talc, clays, dry care products)
• Natural or processed ingredients with high lipid affinity
• Printing inks or overwrap materials

Regulations and recommendations

Although no binding European regulations yet impose precise limits, several bodies recommend increased vigilance:

• BfR (Germany): Zero tolerance for MOAH in food products
• EFSA: Classification of MOAH as potentially genotoxic
• Recommendations from the Food Packaging Forum to avoid sources of contamination (technical oils, recycled cardboard, etc.)

More and more distributors are imposing strict internal thresholds on their suppliers to prevent risks related to the migration of these hydrocarbons.

YesWeLab Support

At YesWeLab, we work with ISO 17025 certified laboratories that have mastered the LC-GC-FID method and its variations. Our experts can assist you with:

• Define the analysis conditions according to your products and objectives
• Identify the potential source of contamination
• To provide comprehensive reports that meet the expectations of authorities and distributors
• Conducting an analysis, either on its own or as part of a comprehensive/specific migration plan

Our secure digital platform allows you to centralize your requests, track your analytical projects and receive your results with complete traceability.

Need to analyze MOSH, MOAH and POSH in your products or packaging?

YesWeLab supports you in monitoring mineral hydrocarbons to guarantee the safety of your food, cosmetics, and materials.
Contact our team today for a quote or to discuss your specifications.