Analytical Protocol
Regulatory compliance for food contact materials in Europe relies on standardized methodology to measure the migration of harmful substances. The JRC guidelines provide the official framework for analyzing mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons and aromatic hydrocarbons in paperboard packaging. These protocols ensure that chemical testing across the European Union is performed with high precision and uniformity.
This document defines the limits of detection and quantification that analytical laboratories must achieve to prove product safety. By setting out clear rules for sample preparation and column calibration, the document ensures that results from different testing bodies are directly comparable.
Testing Method
Sample preparation involves solvent extraction followed by online or offline liquid-gas chromatography. The JRC guidelines specify how to separate the hydrocarbons from interfering compounds like natural plant waxes or synthetic adhesives. Without this separation, false positives can occur, which leads to the rejection of safe packaging boards.
Adhering to these extraction procedures guarantees that the measured contamination arises solely from the board.
Compliance Application
Paperboard mills and converting plants use these methods to certify that their food packaging complies with European health standards. Following the JRC guidelines allows manufacturers to demonstrate that mineral oil migration remains below the dangerous thresholds. This verification is essential for paper boards produced from recycled fibres.
