Dossiers

Metal cans are coated to protect the cans from degrading due to chemical reactions with the food. Coatings also prevent unwanted chemical interactions in the food, caused by migrating metal ions. In this dossier, we provide information on different types of can coatings for direct food contact. Further, the toxicity and exposure assessment of chemicals migrating from can coatings, as well as the regulatory background, are also addressed.

Biobased polymers and biodegradable plastics are both referred to as bioplastics. In contrast to non-degradable petrol-based plastics, materials such as starch-based polymers and polylactides are biobased and compostable under controlled conditions. Types, applications, toxicity and regulation of biobased polymers and biodegradable plastic used in food contact materials are summarized in the dossier.

Biocides are used on the surface of, or integrated into, food contact materials (FCMs). They help with reducing food spoilage and food-borne illnesses. This dossier summarizes the applications, benefits, and risks of biocides used in FCMs and explains U.S. and EU regulations.