On November 18, 2025, the China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment (CFSA) shared exciting news about two new food-related products, including polyvinyl alcohol.
These products have cleared a technical review by an expert committee, a crucial step before they can be considered safe for public use.
Changes to Polyvinyl Alcohol Usage
The CFSA is expanding the use of polyvinyl alcohol. It can now be used as an adhesive for indirect contact with all types of food. This means it’s safe when food is filled at room temperature, even when subjected to heat treatments like pasteurization. After this process, the food can be stored long-term at room temperature.
New Additive for Food Packaging
Another important addition is calcium tert-butylphosphonate, proposed as a new additive for polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) materials that come into contact with food. This new substance enhances the strength, appearance, and protective qualities of these plastics. Safety assessments show that these materials are safe for everyone when used as intended, with a note that only specific PP and HDPE items are suitable for microwave heating.
Community Engagement
The CFSA is keen to hear from the public regarding these proposals. Those interested can submit their thoughts via email to biaozhun@cfsa.net.cn until December 18, 2025.
Why These Updates Matter
Enhancements in food safety and packaging materials are vital. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), safe food contact materials minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. A 2022 report showed that 48 million people in the U.S. get sick from foodborne diseases each year, highlighting the importance of advancements like these.
Experts agree that innovations in food packaging can significantly reduce contamination risks. The introduction of these new additives not only represents a step forward in product safety but also reflects a broader trend towards more sustainable practices in food safety.
For further information, you can visit the CFSA website.
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