Furan and Alkylfurans: Occurrence and Risk Assessment

Abstract

Furan and a number of furan derivatives such as 2- and 3-methylfuran are known to be present in certain heat processed foods where they contribute to flavor and aroma. First described in coffee, food analytical data on furan were published in 2004 when its presence was described in a variety of foods including canned and jarred foods and coffee. Furan is a volatile heterocyclic organic compound used as a chemical intermediate in the chemicals industry. It can also be generated and released by human activities (combustion, fires, exhausts) and is present in cigarette smoke. Human exposure, however, occurs mainly via food. Furan is a potent liver toxin, induces liver cancer in rodents and is classified as ‘reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen’ and as ‘possibly carcinogenic to humans’ (group 2B). Evidence is accumulating that furan induced carcinogenicity involves mainly non-genotoxic mechanisms of action. The current thinking is that methylfurans (MeF) share toxic and mechanistic properties with furan suggesting dose additivity. Exposure to furan(s) via the diet, particularly in high intake consumers including infants receiving baby foods in jars may represent a health concern.