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

Price

Typical price range (Excl. VAT):
591–696 €per sample

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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