Food Contact Simulants

Chemical Interaction

Ethanol and acetic acid are used to mimic the behavior of alcoholic beverages and acidic foods. These liquids penetrate the polymer matrix to see how much of the additives or monomers will leach out during use. Testing with the correct liquid is essential because a resin that is safe for water might fail when exposed to oils.

Testing Protocol

Samples of the plastic are submerged in the liquid for a specific time and temperature to simulate the worst-case conditions of use. For a microwaveable container, this might involve heating the simulant to high temperatures for a short duration. The liquid is then analyzed using mass spectrometry to quantify any migrated substances.

Compliance Margin

Results from these tests determine whether the material meets the legal migration limits for the intended market. If the concentration of a chemical exceeds the threshold, the material cannot be used for that specific food type. Manufacturers use these data to set clear guidelines for how their packaging should be used by the consumer.