EN 18744 Printing Ink Residue Screening in Labels
EN 18744: This European standard is designed to ensure that printing ink residues on labels do not migrate into food or feed products, thereby protecting consumer safety and compliance with regulatory requirements. This service focuses on identifying trace amounts of printing ink residues within the printed label materials used in packaging.
The scope of this testing covers various types of label materials including paper, film, foil, and combinations thereof. The test is particularly important for ensuring that any printing ink residue does not contaminate food or feed products during contact with the package. This service plays a crucial role in preventing potential health risks associated with the ingestion of non-food substances.
The testing process involves the extraction of potential ink residues from the label, followed by analysis to determine their presence and concentration levels. The standard specifies detailed procedures for sample preparation, extraction methods, and detection techniques. Compliance with these requirements ensures that food and feed packaging meets regulatory standards set forth in various international guidelines including ISO 21549, ASTM D863, EN 1059-1, and the Codex Alimentarius.
Our laboratory utilizes advanced analytical instrumentation such as Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to accurately detect even minute amounts of ink residues. This technology allows for precise identification and quantification of the components present in the extracted residue, providing detailed insights into the composition of the ink used.
The acceptance criteria are stringent, ensuring that any detected ink residues do not exceed permissible limits set by relevant regulations. Compliance with these standards is essential to protect public health and ensure consumer confidence in food safety practices.
For quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement professionals involved in the development and production of food and feed packaging, this service offers critical data necessary for ensuring regulatory compliance and product safety. The insights gained from this testing can significantly impact decision-making processes related to label design, material selection, and overall product integrity.
By adhering strictly to EN 18744 guidelines, our laboratory ensures accurate results that meet or exceed industry expectations. This service not only helps in identifying potential risks but also supports continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety of food and feed packaging materials.
Benefits
Compliance Assurance: Ensures adherence to international standards, thereby avoiding legal penalties and maintaining a good reputation among consumers.
- Avoids contamination risks by detecting trace amounts of printing ink residues in label materials before they reach the market.
- Reduces the likelihood of recalls due to non-compliance with food safety regulations.
- Improves overall product quality and customer satisfaction through safer packaging solutions.
Enhanced Safety: By identifying ink residues that could potentially migrate into food or feed products, this service helps protect consumers from potential health hazards.
Competitive Advantage: Demonstrates a commitment to quality and safety, which can be leveraged in marketing strategies and business development efforts.
Eurolab Advantages
Expertise and Experience: Eurolab is staffed with highly qualified professionals who have extensive experience in food and feed testing. Our team stays updated on the latest standards and best practices, ensuring that we provide accurate and reliable results.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with cutting-edge technology, our laboratory offers superior analytical capabilities necessary for precise measurements of ink residues. This allows us to deliver consistent and high-quality results every time.
Comprehensive Reporting: Our reports are detailed and easy to understand, providing clients with all the information they need to make informed decisions regarding their packaging materials.
Timely Turnaround: We understand the importance of timely services. Eurolab prides itself on delivering results quickly without compromising accuracy or thoroughness.
