On July 14, 2017 the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes, Flavourings and Processing Aids (CEF Panel) published the latest update of the meeting minutes of its Working Group on Food Contact Materials (WG-FCM). The 25th meeting of the WG-FCM was held on June 27-28, 2017 in Parma, Italy.
During the meeting, the WG-FCM further discussed and noted changes for the substance [3-(2,3-epoxypropoxy)propyl]trimethoxysilane (CAS 2530-83-8) to be used as a monomer or additive in plastic FCMs (FPF reported). “The revised draft opinion will be scheduled for discussion and possible adoption by the CEF Panel,” the WG-FCM announced.
Further, the WG-FCM discussed the dossiers received from the applicants for the substances (perfluorobutyl)ethylene (PFBE, CAS 19430-93-4) and poly((R)-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-(R)-3-hydroxyhexanoate (CAS 147398-31-0). In order to complete the risk assessments, the WG requested additional information on both substances. The scientific evaluation is suspended until the additional information is submitted. In May 2016, EFSA already published a scientific opinion on poly((R)-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-(R)-3-hydroxyhexanoate for use in plastic packaging in contact with fruits and vegetables (FPF reported). The European Commission (EC) now requested EFSA to supplement its previous opinion “to assess any potential risk resulting from contact between a FCM manufactured with this substance and dry foods.”
The WG-FCM also discussed and noted changes for selenium nanoparticles (CAS 7782-49-2) after having requested and received additional information from the applicant (FPF reported). “The WG identified issues for clarification to be further discussed at the next WG meeting,” the minutes read.
Regarding the trial phase for the implementation of EFSA’s uncertainty guidance, the WG informed its members about the outcome of the workshop on uncertainty held by EFSA’s Scientific Committee on June 22-23, 2017 (FPF reported).
The next meeting of the WG-FCM is scheduled to take place on October 10-12, 2017.
Read more
CEF (July 14, 2017). “Minutes of the 25th meeting of the Working Group on Food Contact Materials 2014-2017.” (pdf)
