In the U.S., the safety of materials that touch food, known as food contact substances (FCS), is carefully regulated. This includes items like packaging, processing tools, and even some adhesives. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is in charge of ensuring these materials are safe for public health.
A food contact substance is any material used to make, package, transport, or hold food. While it’s important for these materials not to affect the food directly, there are concerns about chemicals from them leaching into food and causing health issues.
The FDA uses the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) to manage FCS. This act requires any substance expected to become part of food to have FDA approval, unless it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by experts. If not considered GRAS, companies must submit detailed safety data to the FDA before using a new FCS.
The approval process is thorough. It involves scientific reviews that investigate potential health impacts. A key procedure for new substances is the Food Contact Notification (FCN) process, introduced in 1997. This allows manufacturers to inform the FDA about their intended use of a new material. If the FDA does not respond in 120 days, the notification is approved automatically.
However, the system is not without problems. Substances once deemed safe may later be linked to health risks. For instance, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are used in food packaging for their resistance to grease. Yet studies show they may contribute to severe health issues like cancer.
A recent study identified over 3,600 chemicals from food packaging in human samples, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring. There are also differences between U.S. and European regulations. Some substances banned in Europe remain approved in the U.S., stirring concerns about consumer safety.
In light of these issues, there are calls for reform. Advocates, including public health officials, push for stricter oversight of food contact substances. Proposed changes may require companies to share safety data for new ingredients and modifications before they can be used.
Ensuring the safety of what touches our food is vital for public health. It’s a complex issue with ongoing developments, highlighting the importance of rigorous regulation and oversight to protect consumers.
For further information on food safety and regulations, you can visit the FDA website.
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Source linkfood packaging, generally recognized as safe, food contact, FDA, food additive, food, FDA, Regulatory framework
