A list of substances or groups of substances in foods, drinks and dietary supplements that may potentially pose a health risk was prepared based on the VKM members’ expert judgements. A total of 79 single substances or groups of substances was included.

The substances included in the list are natural toxins, metals and metalloids, persistent organic pollutants, substances used in food contact materials, food additives and flavourings, process-induced contaminants, so-called «other substances» and trace elements.

The ranking of the substances was based on their inherent toxicity (hazard) and level of exposure (based on both occurrence and intake). In addition, vulnerable groups, adequacy of toxicity data and of exposure data (occurrence and/or intake) were considered.

The Scientific Steering Committee of the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment is responsible for the report.