Food Legislation & Migration
Compliance for food packaging
Whether a film, coating, ink or adhesive is suitable for food depends on migration: which substances can pass from the packaging into the food, and in what quantity? We check limits under Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 and support you with your conformity work.
Typical tests in this area
- Conformity status and conformity assessment
- Overall migration under Regulation (EU) No 10/2011
- Specific migration (SML individual substances)
- Mineral oils (MOSH, POSH, MOAH), primary aromatic amines (PAA), heavy metals, residual solvents
- Sensory analysis (Robinson test) and NIAS screening
What the limits mean
For plastics, overall migration must not exceed 10 mg/dm². The specific migration limit (SML) applies to individual substances and is listed in the Union list of Regulation (EU) No 10/2011.
A conformity check establishes whether a material releases no substances in quantities that exceed the limits. It combines document review, worst-case calculations and, where necessary, analysis.
Documents, calculation, analysis
We review raw-material declarations of conformity and test reports. Worst-case calculations can often avoid costly analysis. The end result is a draft declaration of conformity based on complete documentation.
Frequently asked questions
Which migration limits apply to plastic packaging?
For plastics, overall migration must not exceed 10 mg/dm². Specific migration limits (SML) apply to individual substances and are listed in Regulation (EU) No 10/2011. Materials intended exclusively for food for infants and young children are subject to separate limits.
Does every package have to be analysed in a laboratory?
No. A document review with worst-case calculations is often sufficient. Analysis makes sense if the calculation is not enough or a customer requires evidence.
Who issues the declaration of conformity?
The declaration of conformity is the responsibility of the manufacturer or placer on the market of the material. We support you with a draft based on the documentation we have reviewed.
Request a test order
Do you have a material and are unsure which tests are needed? Write to us and your email program will open with a prepared message.
Your contact person
Heike Schwertke
+49 441 94986-14
heike.schwertke@innoform.de
Relevant test methods
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