limit of quantification
The lowest concentration of a substance that can be measured with certainty using standard tests
In food safety, the limit of quantification (LOQ) is the lowest concentration of a substance—such as a contaminant, residue, or chemical—that can be measured accurately and reliably with a given analytical method. Unlike the limit of detection (LOD), which only indicates whether a substance is present, the LOQ provides a quantitative value that can be used in assessments.
EFSA uses LOQs to assess dietary exposure, handle results below measurable levels, and reduce uncertainty in risk assessments. They are also crucial for checking compliance with regulatory limits, such as maximum residue levels for pesticides or contaminants. By using LOQs, EFSA ensures that analytical data are consistent and reliable, supporting informed risk management decisions to protect consumer health.