12.05.2009 15:20
The levels of dioxins and PCBs were higher in reindeer calves than in adult reindeer. The levels in elk meat were on average lower than in reindeer meat and no difference in levels between adult elk and calves were detected. Based on the research there is no reason to limit the consumption of reindeer and elk meat.
43 reindeer meat samples and 12 elk meat samples taken in Northern, Southern and Central Lapland were examined. There were samples from both males and females. The samples for the study came from both calves and adult individuals. The samples were analysed at the National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL).
The results from this research project confirmed previous observations of dioxin and PCB levels in reindeer calves. The levels analysed were lower than had been anticipated.
No maximum dioxin level has been set for reindeer or elk meat in the European Union.
More information on the study (in Finnish):
evira.fi>elintarvikkeet>elintarviketietoa>vierasaineet>poron- ja hirvenlihan dioksiini- ja PCB-pitoisuudet
For more information please contact:
Research Professor Anja Hallikainen, tel. +358 (0)50 3868433, Evira
Senior Officer Ulla Karlström, tel. +358 (0)40 4877798, Evira
Researcher Sauli Laaksonen, tel. +358 (0)50 4691471, Evira
Chemist Päivi Ruokojärvi, tel. +358 (0)20 6106349 and Senior Researcher Hannu Kiviranta, tel. 020 6106361 THL