Intelligent packaging regulation

The results of the investigation contributed to the revision of framework Directive 89/109/EEC on food contact materials. In the new Eramework Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 the use of active and intelligent packaging systems is now included. 

If required in a specific measure, then relevant food contact materials (FCM) shall be accompanied with a declaration of compliance, while appropriate documents shall be provided to relevant authorities to demonstrate such compliance. As most of the requirements in the framework regulation are applicable to all FCM, active and intelligent materials are subject to these rules as they can be considered FCM. In some cases there may be no direct contact with the food, e.g., intelligent packaging positioned on the outside of the primary package, but they are subject to the framework regulation for the reliability of the information provided to the consumer. 

Finally the draft regulation requires that active and intelligent packagings are suitable and effective for the intended purpose and that the active and intelligent components are authorised. Authorisation will be granted after a positive opinion of the EFSA and will be valid only to the applicant for an authorisation. The authorisation will be valid for a period of ten years and may be renewed for another period of ten years. The authorisation will be published in a Decision to the applicant. In addition the active and intelligent components will be inserted in a list of authorised components. 

EEC ° as last amended by Directive 97/48/EC sets requirements (time temperature conditions, selection of simulants) for testing of plastic materials and articles with food simulants. Directive 85/572/EEC indicates the simulants that shall be used for specified foods or groups of foods. See Chapter 5 for further details on these controls. Regulation of chemical migration from plastics into food and drink has developed over many years. EU regulatory control of active and intelligent packaging will therefore have to fit in with this well-established system of controls. 

Restuccia, D., Spizzirri, U. G., Parisi, O. L, Cirillo, G., Curcio, M., lemma, E., Puoci, E., Vinci, G., and Picci, N. New EU regulation aspects and global market of active and intelligent packaging for food industry applications. Food Control, 21, 1425-1435 (2010). 

---