Overview
- OCU, Spain’s main consumer group, said lab tests found mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in all nine olive‑pomace oil samples it analyzed and asked Aesan to order an immediate market withdrawal.
- OCU reported MOAH levels three to ten times above Aesan’s temporary guidance of 10 mg/kg and said the same nine samples also contained MOSH at lower levels.
- OCU warns MOAH can cause cancer and damage DNA with long‑term use, and says even low exposure raises concern for pregnant people, children, and those with weak immune systems.
- The industry group ANEO rejected OCU’s claims, said the oils comply with current law and are safe, and pointed to added controls and a sector pact to meet incoming EU limits in 2028.
- No official recall has been announced, and OCU urged shoppers to pick regular olive oil, curb fatty foods sold in printed cardboard, move ready meals into glass before heating, and called for EU‑wide limits and a probe into the source of the contamination.