MIGRATION OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS FROM FOOD PACKAGING: REGULATORY ASPECTS AND ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL RISKS

Abstract

Plastics have become prevalent in food packaging, although the transfer of additives with potential for migration into food is a significant public health concern. The article reviews various packaging materials, explores the factors influencing the migration of chemicals from packaging into food, reviews the literature on the presence of migrants in food, and identifies potential health risks. The regulatory aspects of the use of food packaging made of polymeric materials in the European Union and the Republic of Moldova are reviewed, as well as the mechanisms governing the migration of additives from packaging into food. The process of migration of additives from plastic containers during microwave heating of food, the use of recycled plastic containers, and their combined effect present topics for extensive biomonitoring, necessary to minimize migration from a food safety perspective.