Meaning
European testing standards designed to determine the migration of specific substances from plastic materials and articles into food simulants provide a standardized quality control protocol. This standard, officially designated as EN 17497, outlines the analytical procedures for measuring the release of certain volatile organic compounds from polymer films and molded components. It specifies the exposure conditions, including temperature and duration, that replicate the intended use phase of the packaging material.
The results are used to confirm that the plastic article does not exceed the legal migration limits established by food safety regulations.
Exposure Protocol
The standard dictates that the plastic sample must be exposed to specific food simulants, such as distilled water or ethanol solutions, depending on the food type. This contact must be maintained at a controlled temperature for a defined period, simulating both short-term and long-term storage scenarios. For example, exposure to sixty degrees Celsius for ten days is commonly used to simulate ambient storage for up to one year.
These conditions ensure that the migration of volatile compounds is fully evaluated under simulated conditions.
Analytical Quantification
Gas chromatography combined with head-space sampling is typically employed to identify and quantify the migrated volatile substances. The analytes of interest, such as residual solvents, monomers, or degradation products, are separated on a capillary column and detected using mass spectrometry. The standard provides specific instructions for calibration and the use of internal standards to ensure accuracy.
This enables the precise determination of very low concentrations of volatile compounds that have migrated into the simulant.
Safety Compliance
Verifying that a polymer product meets the criteria defined in this standard is necessary for obtaining a declaration of compliance. It helps manufacturers identify potential formulation issues, such as excess residual monomer or improper processing temperatures that lead to thermal degradation. The data generated through these standardized tests are critical for demonstrating the safety and inertness of the plastic material.
This ensures that the finished packaging does not alter the organoleptic properties of the foodstuff.
