EFSA Calls for Collection of Data on Phthalates and Plasticisers in Food Contact Materials

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a call for the collection of data on phthalates, structurally similar substances, and replacement substances found in food contact materials (FCMs). This initiative comes in response to a mandate received from the European Commission, requesting preparatory work for the re-evaluation of these substances in FCMs.

The call for data aims to gather migration or occurrence information of plasticisers in FCMs from various stakeholders, including national food authorities, research institutions, academia, and food business operators. The submission of relevant data will contribute to the assessment of dietary exposure to phthalates and plasticisers.

EFSA conducted a previous data collection in 2022 to compile experimental study results on FCMs, such as tests on the migration of plasticisers and the concentration of plasticisers in FCMs. This ongoing data collection in 2023 aims to further expand the knowledge in this area.

A comprehensive list of substances identified as potential plasticisers, including phthalates, terephthalates, citrates, and benzoates, is available on the EFSA website. Stakeholders are encouraged to express their interest in submitting migration or concentration data by contacting EFSA at data.collection@efsa.europa.eu, preferably before the 30th of June 2023.

The deadline for the submission of data is set for the 31st of August 2023, 23:59 (CEST). This collection of data will aid in the re-evaluation process of phthalates, structurally similar substances, and replacement substances in food contact materials, ensuring the safety of consumers and promoting improved food packaging standards.

For more information and access to the list of potential plasticisers, please visit: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6519824.