Paper and cardboard packaging is widely used in food contact applications and other sectors, aligning with sustainable packaging principles.
Food Contact Paper Regulation
Objects made of paper and cardboard intended for food contact are generally governed by EC Regulation 1935/2004. As there is no harmonized European legislation specifically dedicated to paper, Member States adopt different approaches.
It’s essential to examine the substances used in manufacturing paper and cardboard, including fibrous materials, fillers, and auxiliary substances, and to verify compliance with composition and purity requirements, such as PCB limits and the absence of harmful transfers.
Paper Suitability for Food Contact
Mérieux NutriSciences conducts comprehensive tests to verify legal requirements for food suitability. We assess for chemical contamination, commodity checks, heavy metals, and the physical and mechanical properties of products. Analyses adhere to guidelines from BFR, French law, CEPI, and CITPA.
Contaminants & Sensory Analysis
Packaging may introduce contaminants from surface treatments or recycled content, including:
- Formaldehyde (free or extract)
- Mineral oils (MOSH, MOAH)
- Antimicrobial constituents
- Diisopropylnaphthalenes (DIPN)
- Photoinitiators: benzophenone and ITX
- Phthalates
- Heavy metals (Directive 94/62/CE as amended)
- O-phenylphenol
- Pentachlorophenol
- Microbiological contamination
Sensory Analysis
To proactively assess whether packaging materials could cause olfactory or taste defects in food, sensory analysis tests are conducted. These tests determine the organoleptic suitability of the packaging, ensuring it does not adversely affect the food’s flavor or aroma.
Set-off
Regulation (EC) No. 2023/2006 (GMP) governs the use of printing inks on materials in contact with food, stipulating that these printed surfaces must avoid direct food contact. Moreover, the regulation demands careful placement of printing to prevent any constituent transfer that could endanger consumer health or negatively impact the food’s sensory properties.
Technological & Physio-Mechanical Suitability
Tests for technological suitability evaluate the packaging’s ability to fulfill various functions: ensuring proper storage, protecting food products, and facilitating cooking, heating, or freezing processes, as seen with ready-to-eat products. These assessments verify that packaging meets the required standards for food safety and utility.
Sustainability
The choice of paper and cardboard packaging often reflects a commitment to sustainability. Recognized for its recyclability and potential for compostable design, this type of packaging aligns with environmental goals. Our services include:
- Evaluating compliance with EN 13432, ISO 18606, and other international standards for organic recycling suitability.
- Conducting tests to secure TUV Austria and DIN CERTCO certifications across Europe, North America, and Australia.
- Performing paper recyclability tests.
- Checking the safety of recycled packaging materials.
