EN 18973 Adhesive Migration Testing in Multi-Layer Packaging
In the realm of food and feed testing, ensuring that packaging materials are safe for consumer use is paramount. The European Standard EN 18973 provides a stringent framework to evaluate the migration of adhesives from multi-layer packaging into contact materials. This service ensures compliance with regulatory requirements by assessing potential risks associated with adhesive migration.
The process involves subjecting the packaging material to specific environmental conditions that simulate real-world storage and usage scenarios. By doing so, we can accurately measure any potentially harmful substances that may leach from the adhesives into contact materials or food products. This is critical for maintaining product safety and protecting consumer health.
The standard applies particularly to multi-layer packaging used in the food industry where multiple layers of different materials are bonded together using adhesives. These layers can include plastic films, aluminum foils, paperboards, etc., each serving a unique purpose in preserving the integrity and quality of the packaged goods.
During the testing procedure, samples are exposed to controlled conditions such as temperature, humidity, and time, mirroring typical storage and distribution environments. Afterward, extracts are analyzed for various compounds that may have migrated from the adhesive into the contact material or food simulants. The results provide insights into whether the packaging adheres to regulatory limits set by authorities like the European Commission.
This service is essential for quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement teams working within this sector. It ensures that products meet stringent safety standards, thereby protecting brand reputation and consumer trust. By staying ahead of regulatory changes and ensuring product safety, businesses can avoid costly recalls and litigation.
Applied Standards
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| EN 18973 | European Standard for adhesive migration testing in multi-layer packaging used for food and feed. |
Scope and Methodology
The scope of EN 18973 focuses on the evaluation of adhesive migration in multi-layer packaging intended for food and feed products. The methodology involves several key steps:
- Sample preparation: Carefully cut samples from the packaging to ensure representativeness.
- Environmental conditioning: Expose the samples to specified temperature, humidity, and time conditions.
- Extraction: Use appropriate solvents or food simulants to extract potential migrants from the adhesives.
- Analytical techniques: Employ chromatographic methods (GC-MS) for precise quantification of extracted compounds.
- Data interpretation: Compare results against regulatory limits set by relevant authorities.
Why Choose This Test
- Comprehensive assessment of adhesive migration risks in multi-layer packaging.
- Accurate measurement of potential harmful substances leached into contact materials or food simulants.
- Ensures compliance with European and international standards, reducing the risk of product recalls.
- Provides valuable insights for R&D teams to improve packaging design and safety.
- Supports robust quality control measures, enhancing brand reputation and consumer trust.
- Avoids legal disputes by ensuring adherence to stringent regulatory requirements.
