Agriculture Minister reveals potential impact of new EC regulations on sprat fishing industry
In the heart of Europe, the Latvian fish industry is navigating the complexities of adapting to new market requirements set by the European Union (EU), with a particular focus on the production of canned sprats. This adjustment comes amidst concerns about potential impacts of proposed reductions in harmful substances, such as aromatic hydrocarbons.
The Latvian fish industry has been investing heavily to meet EU market requirements and maintain competitiveness. However, the industry is apprehensive about the potential impact of the proposed reductions on their production of canned sprats, a traditional food product highly favoured by Latvian residents.
Recently, Armands Krauze, Minister of Agriculture from the Union of Greens and Farmers, held discussions in Brussels with Olivér Várhelyi, European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety. Krauze expressed his concerns about the proposed reduction, suggesting a postponement until the risk assessment is complete.
The EU is actively working on setting maximum permitted limits for mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in food products, with the regulatory framework expected to come into effect starting in 2027. As of mid-2025, there are currently no legally binding maximum limits for MOAH in food. However, if MOAH are detected above the limit of quantification (LOQ) during official controls, the affected products are to be withdrawn and recalled if necessary.
The European Commission presented a first draft regulation by the end of 2023 to establish these maximum levels, aiming to tighten control and improve food safety. Discussions and preparations are ongoing, with the latest updates in June and July 2025 indicating progress, but some details may still change.
The proposed reduction in aromatic hydrocarbon levels, if implemented, could result in non-compliant production for certain products, particularly canned sprats that use smoked sprats. According to estimates, up to 13.5% of canned sprat production could become non-compliant.
The European Food Safety Authority is currently conducting a risk assessment on the safety of traditionally smoked products. Additional data on these products is needed before the review can be carried out, according to Krauze. The Ministry of Agriculture in Latvia advocates for the reduction of harmful substances in food, but only if it is evaluated and scientifically justified.
Despite the concerns, consumer interest and demand for these traditional food products remain stable, underscoring the importance of finding a balance between food safety and preserving cultural culinary traditions. The Latvian fish industry continues to adapt to EU market requirements, hoping for a fair and scientifically grounded decision regarding the proposed reduction.
[1] European Commission. (2023). Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in food. Retrieved from
[2] European Food Safety Authority. (2025). Risk assessment on the safety of traditionally smoked products. Retrieved from
- In the pursuit of maintaining competitiveness in the European market, the Latvian fish industry is seeking to align with the EU's regulatory framework for food safety, particularly regarding the reduction of aromatic hydrocarbons in food-and-drink products.
- The European Commission's proposal to set maximum permitted limits for mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in food products, aimed at enhancing food safety, has raised concerns within the Latvian fish industry, particularly concerning the implications for their traditional canned sprat production.
- As the European Food Safety Authority continues its risk assessment on the safety of traditionally smoked products, the Latvian Ministry of Agriculture advocates for the reduction of harmful substances in food, provided that the reductions are evaluated and scientifically justified, with a focus on preserving both food safety and Latvian lifestyle and business, including their food-and-drink industry and agriculture.
