EFSA Calls for Data on Migration of Phthalates from Food Contact Materials

On 5 May 2023 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) requested additional evidence regarding the potential migration of plasticisers from food contact materials (FCMs). Stakeholders and interested parties can submit their information until 30 June 2023.

Upon the European Commission's request, EFSA is conducting a re-evaluation of phthalates, substances with similar structures, and alternative materials utilized in FCMs. To facilitate this process, EFSA has extended an invitation for data submissions from various entities, including national food authorities, research institutions, academia, and food business operators.

This is the second call for evidence on migration data in relation to dietary exposure assessment, following a consultation conducted last year. Phthalates, terephthalates, citrates, and benzoates are some of the plasticisers that will be evaluated.

Previously, in January 2023, the European Commission proposed an update to the regulation governing plastics used in FCMs. This proposed update would introduce changes to existing authorizations and specific migration limits (SMLs) for certain uses of phthalates such as dibutyl phthalate (DBP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), and diisononyl phthalate (DINP).