Food packaging testing supports Atlantic crossing victory

Food can be many things, including a reflection of culture, religion and heritage, or a way to build social connections and community. However, for the 44west team, it represented the critical energy source powering their 31-day crossing in the World’s Toughest Row – Atlantic 2026, where every meal had to be safely packaged, resilient and entirely reliable because nothing could be replaced at sea.

During the race, the four-person team would face high humidity, salt exposure, constant motion and significant temperature fluctuations. Under such conditions, food packaging must do more than preserve freshness. It must prevent contamination and limit the migration of chemical substances that could compromise safety. To address these risks, the team selected SGS to independently assess whether its protein powder containers and related packaging could withstand extended exposure to a harsh marine environment.

Using specialised food contact material testing, SGS confirmed the team’s nutrition would remain protected, compliant and safe under conditions far beyond standard product use. Testing was performed under key European Union regulatory frameworks, including Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 and Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011, along with requirements under REACH and the Persistent Organic Pollutants Regulation. Enhanced stress simulations replicated the environmental pressures expected during the Atlantic crossing.

Laboratory analysis evaluated overall and specific chemical migration, including heavy metals, primary aromatic amines, PET‑related monomers, regulated bisphenols and per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). All materials tested complied with EU food contact requirements and remained suitable for prolonged use at sea. No detectable heavy metals, PAAs or PFAS were observed, and bisphenol levels met upcoming regulatory limits entering into force in 2026.

By validating packaging performance before departure, SGS helped ensure the crew began the race confident that its primary energy sources would remain safe and reliable. The project highlights a growing need for robust food contact material testing as products are increasingly used in demanding environments that sit outside typical regulatory assumptions.

Through its global laboratory network and regulatory expertise, SGS supports manufacturers and brands in verifying compliance, protecting consumers and ensuring packaging safety wherever reliability is critical.

Top image caption: The 44west rowing team in action. Images: Supplied