In recent years, there has been increasing concern about the use of plastic in food packaging. It’s often made from fossil fuels, has a negative impact on aquatic and terrestrial environments and is difficult to recycle with current systems. In response, governments have introduced legislation, like the EU Directive on single-use plastics, aimed at minimising waste and improving waste management. As for consumers, disturbing images of plastic pollution in the oceans are driving them away from plastic packaging in favour of more eco-friendly materials.
Sustainable alternatives
Food producers are reducing the amount of plastic in food packaging and developing circular packaging solutions incorporating sustainable yet cost-effective alternatives. These include so-called “green” plastics created from renewable sources like corn, starch and other biomass, or biodegradable plastic based on polylactic acid (PLA). However, many bio-based plastics have not yet been approved for use in food packaging.
Is paper the answer?
TRISKELION has both the legislative knowledge and the advanced analytical expertise to help you ensure your sustainable food packaging material is compliant with regulations. Paper is emerging as a leading alternative material since it’s seen as renewable and easily recyclable. However, paper usually has to be treated in various ways before it can be used in many food applications. It may also be bleached or coloured to look appealing to consumers. These processes involve the use of chemicals that can migrate into food. Furthermore, harmonised EU legislation on paper packaging is currently lacking, meaning food manufacturers have to navigate the paper food packaging regulations in individual EU member states.
Advance testing and legislative support
To help you comply with current regulations, TRISKELION takes the time to thoroughly understand your food contact material and your situation. Only then do we offer a customised solution that fits your needs:
- Evaluation of materials against current EU and US legislation
- Selection of relevant migration tests performed under the right conditions
- Advanced tests for Intentionally Added Substances (IAS) and Non-Intentionally Added Substances (NIAS)
- Accurate, first-time-right results
- Acquisition of data about materials from your suppliers with confidentiality guaranteed
- Legislative support including petitioning regulators for authorisation of new materials
With all these services, we are flexible and adaptable. That’s why we’re a trusted partner for leading raw material producers, converters, food manufacturers and food contact material producers.
