Folgerungen der IARC-Neubewertung von alkoholischen Getränken und Ethylcarbamat für die Lebensmittelüberwachung

Abstract

In February 2007, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has reassessed the carcinogenicity of alcoholic beverages within its monographs programme. Ethanol in alcoholic beverages was classified as to humans (Group 1). Many studies have consistently shown that regular alcohol consumption is causally related with an increased risk for cancer of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, oesophagus, liver, female breast and colorectum. In contrast to the previous evaluation of alcohol drinking in 1988, the IARC working group found evidence that ethanol and not other constituents or contaminants cause the carcinogenicity. In general, the risk for cancer increases with the amount of alcohol intake, e.g. the daily consumption of around 50 g of alcohol increases the risk of cancer of the oral cavity three-fold, compared to the risk of non-drinkers. An association with different types of alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, or spirits) was not observed. A separate evaluation was made for ethyl carbamate (urethane), a frequent contaminant of fermented foods and beverages. Ethyl carbamate was upgraded into Group 2A (probably carcinogenic to humans). The IARC evaluations emphasize the importance and necessity of avoiding and of controling further carcinogenic contaminants in alcoholic beverages (besides ethyl carbamate, e.g. nitrosamines, mycotoxins, lead, cadmium, arsenic), as there exists the possibility of synergistic effects on carcinogenicity between ethanol and other contaminants. In consideration of the IARC evaluation of alcohol as carcinogenic, the EU Health Claims Regulation is appreciated for its prohibiton of nutrition or health claims in the labelling of alcoholic beverages. Furthermore, the proposals for warning labels on alcoholic beverages similar to those on tobacco products are discussed.