Printing ink set-off testing with GC-MS
Printing ink set-off can occur on the reverse side of printed labels, lids, cups, and packaging film, either in a stack or on the reel after printing. This creates a potential for low-molecular-weight substances to transfer to the unprinted surface of the packaging that makes contact with the packed contents.
Annex of Regulation (EC) No 2023/2006 (i.e., the GMP regulation) mandates that printing inks are formulated and applied in a manner that migration into food does not lead to non-compliance with Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004.
In the analysis, samples are first stacked and exposed to accelerated set-off for 10 days at 40 °C. This is followed by migration into food simulants and analysis of the simulant with GC-MS. Finally, the GC-MS results are evaluated according to internationally recognised scientific principles on risk assessment to assess compliance with Regulation (EC) 1935/2004.
Analysis is available with the following food simulants:
Abbreviation | Food simulant | Accreditation status |
|---|---|---|
Food simulant A | water | Non-accredited |
Food simulant A | 10% ethanol | Accredited |
Food simulant B | 3% acetic acid | Accredited |
Food simulant C | 20% ethanol | Accredited |
Food simulant D1 | 50% ethanol | Accredited |
Food simulant D2e | 95% ethanol | Accredited |
Food simulant D2i | isooctane | Accredited |
Food simulant E | Tenax | Accredited |
The price includes a simple risk assessment based on the following EU regulations and guidelines (non-exhaustive list):
Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 (Annex I and Annex II)
Swiss Ordinance SR 817.023.21 (Annex 2 and Annex 10)
BfR Recommendations and outcomes from the BfR Committee for Consumer Goods
EFSA Scientific Opinions for specific food contact substances (e.g., monomers, additives, and aids to polymerization)
EU databases for food additives and food flavouring substances
Toxicological "read-across" approach (applying established limits from structurally similar authorized substances to substances with data gaps)
EFSA’s Threshold of Toxicological Concern (TTC) approach
More extensive risk assessment is available upon request for an additional cost.
- Suitable sample matrices
- Plastic, food contact materials with polymeric coatings, paper and board
- Required sample quantity
- Film: 10xA4-size sheets; articles (e.g. cups): at least 10.
- Typical turnaround time
- 7 – 8 weeks after receiving the samples
- Detection limit
- LOQ 0.01 mg/kg (semi-quantitative)
- Available quality systems
- Accredited test method
- Device types
- Standard
- Method expert
Price
We also charge a 97 € service fee per order.
Large batches of samples are eligible for discounts.
Questions? We're happy to help.
Questions? We're happy to help.
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