News | RIVM

From 1 June 2022, heel prick test also screens for muscle disease SMA, bringing number of screened diseases to 26

From 1 June 2022, the heel prick test for Dutch newborns will also screen for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). SMA is a serious hereditary muscle condition. Detecting this disease at an early stage enables early treatment.

Possible health risks due to exposure to chromium-6 at tROM project Tilburg

Research by RIVM shows that the participants in the so-called tROM project, their supervisors and other people involved may have been exposed to chromium-6.

Blood spot test extended as of 1 January 2017 to include two more disorders

As of 1 January 2017, the disorders alpha and beta thalassaemia will be added to the neonatal blood spot (‘heel prick’) screening programme.

RIVM and German BfR enter cooperation agreement on animal protection and food safety

The German Federal Institute of Risk Assessment (BfR) and the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, RIVM have signed a cooperation agreement, focused on developing new sci

Breakthrough on cumulative risk assessment exposure to pesticides in food

The European Commission, Member States and EFSA have taken a major step forward in their work on assessing the cumulative risks from exposure to pesticides in food.

Newborn heel prick screening starts on St Eustatius and Saba

On 26 October 2015, heel prick screening started for all newborns on St Eustatius and Saba.

RIVM Nutrition and Food Safety expert gets top risk assessment function at EFSA

As of November 1, Prof. Hans Verhagen will join the European Food Safety Authorithy (EFSA) in Parma, Italy as Head of the Risk Assessment and Scientific Assistance Department (RASA).

Potassium intake and risk for hyperkalaemia reviewed

It is nearly impossible to get an overdose of potassium from natural food sources.

Adequate limit value for pyrrolizidine alkaloids in herbal tea and herbal preparations

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are natural toxins occurring in a wide variety of plants, including herbs.

No health risks associated with foods and food supplements containing Krill and microalgae oils

Consumption of foods and food supplements that contain oil from microalgae Schizochytrium sp. and Krill oil do not cause harm to our health.