Jäätmenimestikus

Jäätmenimestikus, a term originating from Estonian, refers to a systematic compilation or database of contaminants found in food and other products. The word is a compound of "jäätmen" (meaning residue or waste) and "nimestikus" (meaning list or directory). Therefore, it translates literally to a "residue list" or "contaminant directory."

The primary purpose of a jäätmenimestikus is to document and track substances that may be present in food products, such as pesticides, veterinary drugs, heavy metals, or processing aids. This information is crucial for food safety authorities, manufacturers, and researchers to assess risks, set regulatory limits, and ensure consumer protection. Such lists can also extend to other areas, including environmental monitoring, where they might catalog pollutants in water, soil, or air.

Creating and maintaining a jäätmenimestikus involves extensive scientific analysis, data collection, and regulatory oversight. These databases are dynamic, requiring regular updates as new contaminants are identified, analytical methods improve, and scientific understanding of potential health effects evolves. The information contained within a jäätmenimestikus serves as a foundational tool for risk assessment and the development of policies aimed at minimizing exposure to harmful substances.