On October 18, 2023, the National Health Commission (NHC) of China published two drafts for the safety standard of food contact materials (FCMs). One refers to general safety requirements for food contact materials and articles (FCMs and FCAs), and the other one to silicone rubber FCMs and FCAs (FPF reported and here).
The revised general safety standard includes a broad range of requirements, such as basic safety criteria, restrictions, compliance measures, test methods, traceability requirements, and product information specifications. It would replace the existing standard GB 4806.1-2016 National Food Safety Standard: General Safety Requirements on Food Contact Materials and Articles, issued in 2016. The requirements apply to all FCMs and FCAs within the country. Notable changes include a revised definition of food contact effective barriers and adjustments to production information requirements, including the declaration of conformity.
The silicone rubber proposal introduces a completely new standard that outlines the general safety requirements for silicone rubber FCMs, featuring a positive list of food contact chemicals, as well as testing methods for volatile compounds.
The NHC invites feedback and comments on these proposed standards from the public and relevant stakeholders before December 15, 2023.
Want to know about other open consultations? The Food Packaging Forum provides an up-to-date list of open consultations related to FCMs.
References
Alexandra Warren (October 25, 2023) “China proposes update to FCM safety requirements, new silicone standard.” (Enhesa)
National Health Commission China (October 18, 2023) “Letter from the Secretariat of the National Food Safety Standards Review Committee soliciting opinions on 11 national food safety standards.” (in Chinese)
National Health Commission China (October 18, 2023) “List of standards currently open for public comment.” (in Chinese)
