Search Results (36)

Food contact materials (FCMs) represent a major route of exposure to chemicals since they can migrate from packaging into food, raising health concerns. Due to its heterogeneous nature and complexity, the monitoring of chemicals present in or released by FCMs poses a significant analytical challenge, requiring both target methods for the quantitative determination of both intentionally and non-intentionally added substances (IAS and NIAS) and untargeted approaches to fingerprint the material and identify previously unknown IAS and NIAS. In recent years, green analytical chemistry has become fundamental for method development, promoting safer, faster and more sustainable workflows with reduced solvent consumption, waste generation and environmental impact. This review discusses recent advances in green analytical workflows for FCM characterization, with emphasis on sample preparation and instrumental analysis, covering the state of the art from 2020 to 2026. Full article

Micro and nanoplastics (MNPs) are increasingly recognized as contaminants in food systems; however, the specific packaging elements responsible for particle release remain poorly resolved. Most studies treat packaging as a single material category, without covering distinct contributions from the different units of modern food contact materials (FCMs). We propose a packaging structure taxonomy based on functional elements: container (C), closure (CL), and functional layers (F), including operational interfaces (+I), designed to enable components attribution of possible origins of plastic fragments in foods and beverages. Through a structured synthesis of the current literature, we map the primary processes leading to MNP generation across these modules, including tribological abrasion at closure contact interfaces, thermally driven polymer degradation in containers and delamination or shedding from coatings, adhesives and multilayer structures. Available evidence indicates that repeated mechanical actions such as opening and closing cycles can generate measurable particle release from closure assemblies. The proposed C/CL/F + I framework introduces standardized descriptors and reporting units that improve comparability across studies and supports origin attribution. By explicitly separating packaging parts and their operational interaction zones, the taxonomy provides a methodological bridge between analytical microplastic detection and engineering strategies aimed at minimizing particle formation. Its adoption can facilitate harmonized experimental design, strengthen regulatory risk assessment and guide the development of packaging configurations that minimize plastic particle shedding into foods. Full article

Silicone food contact materials (FCMs) pose potential health risks due to the migration of siloxanes. This study presents a comprehensive migration profiling of 35 siloxanes (cyclic D3–D22 and linear L2–L14) from 30 silicone FCMs, with migration tests rigorously conducted under worst-case intended-use scenarios to ensure conservative and reliable exposure estimates. Methodological innovations include an expanded analytical scope, age-stratified exposure assessment across seven age groups, and a multi-tiered risk evaluation framework. The results reveal that migration behaviors were affected by simulant polarity, siloxane solubility, and silicone thermal stability. The risk evaluation framework integrates aggregate migration limits for total cyclic (D3–D13) and total cyclic plus linear siloxanes (D3–D13, L3–L13), complemented by individual siloxane assessment via Risk Quotient (RQ) and Threshold of Toxicological Concern (TTC) approaches. While the total migration of cyclic siloxanes exceeded the proposed action limit of 12 mg/kg for adults in several samples and 2 mg/kg for children in most samples, granular assessment revealed divergent risks: Cyclic D4 and D5 showed negligible risk (RQ < 5). In contrast, D3 migration posed a potential concern (RQ > 5), especially for individuals aged >13 years. Notably, the estimated exposures to 14 siloxanes with low molecular weight (<1000 Da), including highly prevalent D6 and L12 with detection frequency >90%, exceeded the TTC threshold across all age groups, highlighting unaddressed risks that are not captured by aggregate action limits. This work underscores the need for substance-specific, age-specific risk evaluations and regulatory updates for silicone FCMs. Full article

This study investigated the inactivation effect and influencing factors of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatment with Salmonella typhimurium and Staphylococcus aureus populations on three food contact materials (FCMs)—kraft paper, 304 stainless steel, and glass. The CAP was generated as an atmospheric helium plasma jet (15 kV, 10.24 kHz, He 4 L/m), and the experimental results indicated that its inactivation effects on two bacterial species gradually increased as the plasma treatment duration increased (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 min). Three classical sterilization kinetic models (Log-linear, Weibull, and Log-linear + Shoulder + Tail) were employed to evaluate the inactivation efficiency of plasma against bacteria FCMs. Combined with the coefficient of determination (R²), accuracy factor (A_f), and bias factor (B_f), together with the root mean square error (RMSE), it can be concluded that the Log-linear + Shoulder + Tail model had the highest fitting degree among the three sterilization kinetics models. Salmonella typhimurium exhibited weaker resistance than Staphylococcus aureus to the same CAP treatment. Under the same conditions, CAP had the strongest bactericidal effect on the bacteria on the glass surface, followed by those on the 304 stainless steel, and had the weakest bactericidal effect on the bacteria on the kraft paper surface, which might be related to the surface hydrophilicity and roughness of the FCMs. The above results indicated that CAP’s inactivation effect may be influenced by the microbial species as well as the surface characteristics of FCMs. This study provides useful information for future applications of CAP in enhancing food safety. Full article

This study explores reusing discarded industrial polylactic acid (PLA), such as defective parts, scraps and burrs, for food contact applications. Reprocessing of PLA (PLA-RP) was simulated via melt extrusion, and the obtained pellets were characterized in terms of viscosity average molecular weight (M_v), melt flow index (MFI), the presence of non-intentionally added substances (NIASs) and the absence of metals to ensure that no substances exceeded the specific migration limits (SMLs). A slight reduction in the M_v, accompanied by an increase in the MFI, was observed in PLA-RP. In virgin PLA, fewer compounds were detected, likely related to residual additives. A higher variety and concentration of volatile and non-listed compounds were observed in reprocessed PLA (PLA-RP), with three exceeding their assigned Cramer class thresholds, requiring further evaluation. Most identified substances were typically linked to thermal degradation or potential additives for reprocessing. In both the virgin and reprocessed materials, all substances with SMLs remained below applicable thresholds, including trace metals. The PLA-RP was further processed into films by means of a compression moulding process. The structure, mechanical behaviour, thermal stability and water vapor transmission rate were comparable to those of virgin PLA, indicating no significant changes. The overall migration level tested in a fatty food simulant remained below regulatory limits. The materials fully disintegrated under laboratory-scale composting conditions in less than 3 weeks. Thus, reprocessed PLA shows great potential as a non-migrating material of interest in the sustainable food packaging field. Full article

In order to recycle plastic waste back to food contact materials (FCMs), it is necessary to identify hazardous substances in plastic packaging that pose a toxicological risk. Printing inks on plastics are not yet designed to withstand the high heat stress of mechanical recycling processes and therefore require hazard identification. In this study, virgin polypropylene (PP) foils were printed with different types of inks (UV-cured, water-based) and colour shades. Thermal analysis of printed foils and pigments was performed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Samples were then thermally treated below and above measured thermal events at 120 °C, 160 °C, 200 °C or 240 °C for 30 min. Subsequently, migration tests and miniaturised Ames tests were performed. Four out of thirteen printed foils and all three pigments showed positive results for mutagenicity in miniaturised Ames tests after thermal treatment at 240 °C. Additionally, pre-incubation Plate Ames tests (according to OECD 471) were performed on three pigments and one printed foil, yielding two positive results after thermal treatment at 240 °C. These results indicate that certain ink components form hazardous decomposition products when heated up to a temperature of 240 °C. However, further research is needed to gain a better understanding of the chemical processes that occur during high thermal treatment. Full article

The migration of hindered phenolic antioxidants from food contact materials (FCMs) into foodstuffs poses health risks due to endocrine disruption and organ toxicity. Hence, the development of a high-efficiency analytical method for hindered phenolic antioxidants is of great importance for food safety. This study developed a novel ultrasound-assisted dispersive solid-phase filter extraction (d-SPFE) coupled with green supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) method for the simultaneous determination of six representative hindered phenolic antioxidants. Under optimized conditions, the method achieved high extraction efficiency, with the complete separation of all analytes within 10 min. A wide linearity range (0.02–2.0 μg/mL) was achieved, with coefficients of determination all greater than 0.9996. The limits of detection (LOD, S/N = 3) and limits of quantification (LOQ, S/N = 10) were 2.4–3.6 ng/mL and 8–12 ng/mL, respectively. Validation tests demonstrated precise spiked recoveries (89.4–101.6%), with intra-day and inter-day relative standard deviations (RSDs) all less than 10%. The d-SPFE-SFC synergy significantly outperforms conventional techniques in terms of analysis speed and eco-efficiency. Successful application to food simulants confirms its reliability in monitoring hindered phenolic antioxidant migration from FCMs. This green and rapid methodology will enable the direct assessment of migration risks. Full article

Microbial contamination and biofilm formation on food contact materials (FCMs) represent critical challenges within the food supply chain, compromising food safety and quality while increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Traditional materials often lack sufficient microbial resistance to contamination, creating a high demand for innovative antimicrobial surfaces. This study assessed the effectiveness of a nanosized deposited SiO_xC_yH_z coating approved for food contact on 3D-printed polyamide 12 (PA12) disk substrates, aiming at providing antimicrobial and anti-biofilm functionality to mechanical components and packaging material in the food supply chain. The coating was applied using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) and characterized through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and contact angle measurements. Coated PA12 samples exhibited significantly enhanced hydrophobicity, with an average water contact angle of 112.9°, thus improving antibacterial performance by markedly reducing bacterial adhesion. Microbiological assays revealed a significant (p < 0.001) bactericidal activity (up to 4 logarithms after 4 h, ≥99.99%) against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including notable foodborne pathogens such as L. monocytogenes, S. aureus, E. coli, and S. typhimurium. SiO_xC_yH_z-coated PA12 surfaces exhibited strong antibacterial activity, representing a promising approach for coating additive-manufactured components and equipment for packaging production in the food and pharmaceutical supply chain able to enhance safety, extend product shelf life, and reduce reliance on chemical sanitizers. Full article

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are widely utilized in food contact materials (FCMs) due to their water- and oil-repellent properties, yet their potential migration into food raises significant health concerns. This study employs high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) to quantify the migration of 40 PFAS from microwave popcorn bags and assess the associated health risks. HRMS offers high mass accuracy and resolution, enabling precise detection of a broad spectrum of PFASs, including those with low migration levels. Migration experiments were conducted using 10% ethanol and 50% ethanol as food simulants at 70 °C for 2 h. The results indicate that when risk assessment is based solely on the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) tolerable weekly intake (TWI) for four PFAS, hazard ratio (HR) values range from 0.01 to 0.8, suggesting minimal risk. However, when all PFAS are converted into perfluorooctanoic acid equivalents (PEQs) and compared against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) reference dose (RfD), HR values range from 0.3 to 142.3, indicating a significantly elevated health risk. These findings emphasize the necessity of comprehensive risk assessments incorporating the cumulative effects of all PFAS to better understand potential human exposure and inform regulatory policies. Full article

Recycling post-consumer plastics for food contact applications is crucial for the circular economy; however, it presents challenges due to potential contamination and regulatory requirements. This review outlines the current European and U.S. legislation governing recycled plastics in food contact materials (FCM). The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) mandates the evaluation and authorization of recycling processes. This includes examining input/output flows, prioritizing the use of previously authorized FCM, and assessing decontamination efficiency through material-specific challenge tests. Additionally, it evaluates new installations intended to apply approved decontamination technologies. In contrast, the voluntary submission to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides guidelines with general advice on methodologies and recommended parameters and challenge tests. Applications to the EFSA for non-PET materials, such as HDPE, PP, and PS, are reviewed, highlighting the challenges of each material. Recycled PS, with its lower diffusivity compared to polyolefins shows promise for food packaging, with potential as a next material approved for use in the European Union. Decontamination technologies for post-consumer PS are explored, including super-cleaning processes, solvent extraction, and industrial methods. The review emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary collaboration to address the uncertainties around potential contaminants and ensure the safety of recycled plastics for food contact applications. Full article

Despite the extensive use of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) in food contact materials (FCMs), research on the presence of heavy metals (HMs) and rare earth elements (REEs) during various recycling stages (e.g., flakes, granules, and preforms) remains limited. This study aimed to address these gaps by validating a rapid and sensitive analytical method to quantify 26 HMs and 4 REEs in PET and rPET matrices. An ICP-MS method was validated per EURACHEM guidelines, assessing linearity, limits of detection (LOD), limits of quantification (LOQ), accuracy, and repeatability. The method was employed for initial screening of HMs and REEs classified as non-intentionally added substances (NIASs) in PET and rPET samples. The findings showed high accuracy and reliability, with recovery rates between 80% and 120%. Analysis revealed varying concentrations of HMs and REEs, with the highest levels in 100% rPET preforms, notably Zn, Cu, and Al among HMs, and La among REEs. The study identified critical contamination points during the recycling process, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. This research provides a crucial analytical framework for assessing HMs and REEs in PET and rPET, ensuring FCM safety compliance and supporting efforts to enhance rPET product safety, promoting public health protection and advancing the circular economy. Full article

Wine quality and safety is affected by the food contact materials (FCMs) used. These materials are expected to protect the beverage from any chemical, physical, or biological hazard and preserve its composition stable throughout its shelf-life. However, the migration of chemical substances from FCMs is a known phenomenon and requires monitoring. This review distinguishes the migrating chemical substances to those of (i) industrial origin with potential safety effects and those of (ii) natural occurrence, principally in cork (ex. tannins) with organoleptic quality effects. The review focuses on the migration of industrial chemical contaminants. Migration testing has been applied only for cork stoppers and tops, while other materials like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles with aluminum cups, paperboard cartons, stainless steel vats, and oak casks have been examined for the presence of chemical migrating substances only by wine analysis without migration testing. The dominant analytical techniques applied are gas and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (MS) for the determination of organic compounds and Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and ICP-MS for elemental analysis. Targeted approaches are mostly applied, while limited non-target methodologies are reported. The identified migrating substances include authorized substances like phthalate plasticizers, monomers (bisphenol A), antioxidants (Irganox 1010), known but non-authorized substances (butylparaben), break-down products, oxidation products (nonylphenol), polyurethane adhesive by-products, oligomers, ink photoinitiators, and inorganic elements. A preliminary investigation of microplastics’ migration has also been reported. It is proposed that further research on the development of comprehensive workflows of target, suspect, and non-target analysis is required to shed more light on the chemical world of migration for the implementation of an efficient risk assessment and management of wine contact materials. Full article

This work explores the definition and characterization of synthetic polymeric oligomers, chemical substances comprising a small number of repeated organic molecules. It highlights the lack of clarity surrounding the range of repeated units that can be classified as an oligomer, and how this definition is field-dependent. The present study focused on PET cyclic oligomers and revealed that the progression of the ring length from smaller to longer oligomers followed the well-known odd-even effect. This phenomenon affects the physical and chemical properties of oligomers and can also be observed with analytical techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), high resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS) and NMR. Similarities between PET and PBT oligomers were also observed, and an alternative potential definition for oligomers in the polymeric field is suggested based on physical behaviour of the longer cyclic oligomers. Full article

The growing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial strains has increased the demand for preventing biological deterioration on the surfaces of films used in applications involving food contact materials (FCMs). Herein, we prepared superhydrophobic film surfaces using a casting process that involved the combination of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) with solutions containing surface energy-reducing silica (SRS). The bacterial antifouling properties of the modified film surfaces were evaluated using Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus epidermidis via the dip-inoculation technique. The reduction in bacterial populations on the LDPE film embedded with SRS was confirmed to be more than 2 log-units, which equates to over 99%, when compared to the bare LDPE film. Additionally, the modified film demonstrated liquid-repelling properties against food-related contaminants, such as blood, beverages, and sauces. Moreover, the modified film demonstrated enhanced durability and robustness compared to one of the prevalent industry methods, dip-coating. We anticipate that the developed LDPE/nano-silica composite film represents a promising advancement in the multidisciplinary aspects of food hygiene and safety within the food industry, particularly concerning FCMs. Full article

Oligomers are a particular category of non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) that may be present in food contact materials (FCMs), such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and consequently migrate into foods. Here, an ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-qTOF-MS) method was developed for the analysis of 1st series cyclic PET oligomers in virgin olive oil (VOO) following a QuEChERS clean-up protocol. Oligomer migration was evaluated with two different migration experiments using bottles from virgin and recycled PET: one with VOO samples stored in household conditions for a year and one using the food simulant D2 (95% v/v ethanol in water) at 60 °C for 10 days. Calibration curves were constructed with fortified VOO samples, with the LOQs ranging from 10 to 50 µg L⁻¹ and the recoveries ranging from 86.6 to 113.0%. Results showed no migration of PET oligomers in VOO. However, in the simulated study, significant amounts of all oligomers were detected, with the migration of cyclic PET trimers from recycled bottles being the most abundant. Additional substances were tentatively identified as linear derivatives of PET oligomers. Again, open trimer structures in recycled bottles gave the most significant signals. Full article