NSF introduces safe food packaging certification

NSF launches its newest protocol, NSF P525: Safe Food Packaging (NSF P525), to address food contact chemicals.

NSF P525 certifies single-use, primary and secondary packaging intended for contact with food and beverages. The certification uses science-based methodology to validate the elimination of chemicals of concern, including Bisphenol A (BPA), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), heavy metals and phthalates.

“Recent research has underscored the health risks of toxic substances leaching from packaging into food, increasing concerns among both consumers and manufacturers,” said Sam Cole, director of food contact evaluations, NSF. “When you see the NSF P525: Safe Food Packaging certification mark on food products, you can rest assured that it has been reviewed by independent, third-party technical experts and scientists to help verify limited exposure to chemicals of concern.”

NSF’s Safe Food Packaging protocol was developed with the assistance of key stakeholders from the food packaging industry, retailers and food manufacturers.

Certification to NSF P525 is available globally and involves one or more of the following:

• Regulatory compliance: The packaging product is reviewed for compliance with region/country-specific regulations.
• Material migration testing: Food contact materials undergo lab testing using food simulants and a technical review to assess the potential of identified chemicals leaching into food.
• “Free From” claim verification: The packaging material is tested to confirm it is truly “free from” specific chemicals such as BPA, PFAS, phthalates and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH), and heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury.

The new protocol covers a thorough list of packaging types, including bowls, boxes, cans, cartons, clamshells, cups, films, foils, jars, plates, pouches, sachets, trays, tubs, tubes and wrappers. Applicable materials include plastics, paper, glass and ceramics.