Information required on chemical migration from packaging into food

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is seeking information on chemical migration from packaging into food products.

“Food packaging has many benefits - it allows food to be transported, prevents microbial contamination and increases shelf life, providing convenience for consumers,” said FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon.

“That said, FSANZ would like to learn more about how the migration of chemicals from packaging into food is currently being managed by industry - particularly smaller operators.”

FSANZ released a consultation paper today (12 November), which forms part of a broader proposal that aims to determine whether current safety measures are adequate or if further action is required to prevent chemical migration from packaging into food.

“Currently, the law requires all food to be safe and suitable. Despite this, some stakeholders continue to have concerns about chemical migration from packaging into food so we want to be sure it is being managed appropriately,” said McCutcheon.

“Our preliminary work with peak food industry and packaging bodies has given us a reasonably good understanding of current usage and safety measures. The results of surveys suggest that good practices are generally being implemented.

“However, to help us complete the picture, we are seeking further information, particularly from smaller to medium-sized businesses, about the kinds of packaging they are using and measures they have in place to ensure safety.”

Submissions close on 24 December. For more information about Proposal P1034 - Managing chemical migration from packaging into food, click here.