Polyurethane Soft Touch Film Selection for Folding Cartons
Polyurethane soft-touch films provide superior scratch resistance and score fold integrity compared to BOPP but require higher temperature control and lower web yields.
FDA 21 CFR 175.105
Adhesive Standard
Packaging adhesives used in food-contact materials must comply with federal safety regulations to prevent migration of harmful substances into the packaged food. In the United States, the codification known as FDA 21 CFR 175.105 establishes the conditions under which adhesives may be safely used as components of articles intended for packaging, transporting, or holding food. It lists the specific substances that can be used to formulate these adhesives and defines the physical constraints of the finished package.
To comply, the adhesive must be separated from the food by a functional barrier, or be used within specified limits.
Safety Barrier
Converters must ensure that the outer adhesive layer does not migrate through the substrate to contact the product. Under the provisions of FDA 21 CFR 175.105, the manufacturer of the packaging or the adhesive holds the responsibility of ensuring that either a physical barrier or an impermeable film prevents migration. Standard paperboard packages must use a compliant liner or a functional polymer barrier when non-compliant adhesives are present.
Compliance Verification
Documentation of compliance consists of a formal statement from the adhesive supplier confirming that the raw materials used are permitted under the regulation. Testing of migration using food simulants can confirm the safety of the adhesive assembly in challenging conditions. This verification protects both the food producer and the final consumer.