Chapter IV - General Provisions as to Articles of Food
Section 20
Section 20: Contaminants, naturally occurring toxic substances, heavy metals, etc
Food may not exceed regulatory limits for contaminants, naturally occurring toxins, hormones or heavy metals.
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This article is for general information. Refer to the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
No article of food shall contain any contaminant, naturally occurring toxic substances or toxins or hormone or heavy metals in excess of such quantities as may be specified by regulations.
Key takeaways
Core rule
Food may not exceed regulatory limits for contaminants, naturally occurring toxins, hormones or heavy metals.
Practical check
Compare a validated test result with the correct food-category limit and units, rather than treating detection alone as a breach.
Scope and operation
The section states a limit rule; the actual quantity must be found in the applicable current regulation for the article and substance.
Applying the section
Compare a validated test result with the correct food-category limit and units, rather than treating detection alone as a breach.
Official sources
Read the consolidated Act with the enacted and commenced amendments applicable to this section.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 10 October 2026