From a chemical point of view, mineral oils are complex mixtures consisting mainly of saturated petroleum hydrocarbons and mostly alkylated aromatic petroleum hydrocarbons. MOAH are suspected of being carcinogenic (carcinogenic), which is why their content should be minimized according to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

There are many sources of MOSH / MOAH in food:

• Packaging materials (recycled paper, printing inks, jute sacks)
• Lubricants from harvesting and processing machines
• Exhaust gases from the environment (compressed air)
• Dressings made from mineral oil-containing corrugated board
• Food additives (release, coating, shine, anti-dust agents)

To exclude as many sources as possible, lubricants in the feed and food industry should be H1 certified food greases and oils. The legal basis for minimizing lubricant quantities is often the FDA 21 CFR 178.3570, according to which the least amount of lubricant must be used, which still ensures a technical functioning of the equipment.