Migration of contaminants from food packages to its content – Brazilian scenario and regulation

Consumers demand pleasant taste and odor in the final food product. Changes in these characteristics may be due to food deterioration or migration of substances from the packaging into food. The production of plastics for food containers involves catalysts which may contain toxic elements. In Brazil, there are limits of migratory substances and procedures for determining its rate. We aim to emphasize the food risks of migration of toxic substances from plastic packaging into its contents, and the Brazilian regulations regarding this issue. PET (polyethylene terephthalate) as raw matter for food packaging, is a concern in Brazil. The research methods currently adopted in Brazil are efficient for As, Cd, Co, Cr, and Sb determination. During PET synthesis and recycling, secondary reactions may form acetaldehyde, diethylene glycol and toxic oligomers. Monitoring by government mechanisms is essential to enforce safe food packaging. However, migration over the product shelf life remains an issue.