We check your existing technical documentation or test reports for plausibility.
We identify the tests required for your product, find a suitable laboratory, handle all communication with the laboratory, and evaluate the resulting test report.
We can assist you in preparing the technical documentation for your product.
We prepare the labelling elements required for your product.
The declaration of conformity is the summary of the results of internal and external tests to verify compliance with legal requirements for materials intended to come into contact with food. It confirms that a product meets the applicable legal requirements – and is therefore fit for sale. Certain materials are subject to their own regulations with specific requirements – including plastics (including recycled plastics), ceramics and metals.
It does not matter whether the item is a finished product, a product component or packaging – all elements that come into contact with food must meet the requirements.
We can help you set up a materials data management system and implement materials compliance requirements.
Many materials are not recognisable at first glance:
Food contact materials are materials and articles intended to come into contact with food or which may come into contact with food under normal conditions. These include, for example, packaging, kitchen utensils, containers, coatings or machine components (hoses, seals, conveyor belts, etc.) used in food production.
These may include, amongst others, packaging, plastics, paper and cardboard materials, silicones, metals, printing inks, adhesives and technical components that come into contact with food.
Various European and national regulations apply to food contact materials. These include, in particular, the Framework Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 and – depending on the material – other specific regulations, for example those relating to plastics.
For certain groups of materials – particularly plastics and ceramics – declarations of conformity are required by law. Furthermore, they may be required throughout the supply chain as important evidence of material conformity.
A declaration of conformity typically contains information on the material, the substances used, relevant restrictions, the intended conditions of use, and the underlying legislation and tests.
Migration tests are used to assess whether substances from a material or article can migrate into food. Various conditions, such as temperature, contact time and types of food, are taken into account.
Whether testing is required depends on the material in question, its intended use, the available data and the regulatory requirements. Not every product automatically requires the same tests or evidence.
Food contact materials often require close coordination throughout the supply chain. Information on materials, substances used, tests and conditions of use must be documented in a traceable manner and passed down the supply chain.
Typical challenges include incomplete supplier documentation, missing substance information, inconsistent declarations of conformity, or uncertainties regarding multi-layer materials and complex supply chains.
