Europe is one of the key export regions for China's tableware, kitchen utensils, and small kitchen appliances. However, the legislation governing food contact materials (FCMs) in Europe is complex and frequently enforced. If non-compliant products are discovered, they may be detained, returned, or even destroyed.
The Framework Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 outlines the general and fundamental requirements for FCMs in the EU. It serves as a common guideline that all EU member states must follow. More specific requirements for different materials are governed by corresponding regulations and directives, such as EU 10/2011 for plastics and Directives 84/500/EEC and 2005/31/EC for ceramics.
In addition to EU-wide requirements, some member states have implemented additional national regulations. Examples include:
- Germany: LFGB Sections 30 & 31
- France: Décret No. 2007-766
- Italy: Ministerial Decree DM 21/03/1973
- Tableware: Knives, forks, bowls, chopsticks, spoons, cups, plates, etc.
- Cookware: Pots, spatulas, cutting boards, stainless steel kitchen utensils, etc.
- Food Packaging Containers: Various food packaging bags, containers for beverages and foods, etc.
- Kitchen Appliances: Coffee machines, juicers, blenders, electric kettles, rice cookers, ovens, microwaves, etc.
Required sample amounts vary by product type. Please consult JJR LAB online customer service for details.
Typical reference quantities:
- Plastic: 2000 cm²
- Metal (e.g., stainless steel): 100 cm²
- Flat ceramics (e.g., plates): 100 cm²
- Ceramic containers: 2 pieces
- Glass/enamel: Same as ceramics
- Paper: 1800 cm² + 100g
- Coated materials: 1500 cm²
- Silicone/rubber: 1000 cm²
Framework Regulation:
- (EC) No. 1935/2004
Material-Specific Standards:
- Plastics: EU 10/2011; EU 2016/1416; EU 2017/752; EU 2020/1245
- Ceramics: 84/500/EEC; 2005/31/EC
- Coatings: AP(2004)1
- Cork: AP(2004)2
- Rubber: AP(2004)4; 93/11/EEC
- Silicon Rubber: AP(2004)5
- Paper and Board: AP(2002)1
- Metals and Alloys: CM/Res(2013)9
- Epoxy Derivatives: (EC) No. 1895/2005
- Colorants: AP(89)1
National Requirements:
- Germany: LFGB Chapter 30 & 31, BfR Recommendations
- France: Décret No. 2007-766, DGCCRF Notices
- Italy: Ministerial Decree DM 21/03/1973
USA Standards:
- FDA 21 CFR 174–189, CPG Sec. 545.400 & 545.450, etc.
- Overall migration
- Specific migration of heavy metals
- Primary aromatic amines (PAAs)
- Bisphenol A (BPA)
- Formaldehyde
- Melamine
- Epoxy derivatives (BADGE/BFDGE/NOGE)
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The duration depends heavily on the test conditions (e.g., immersion parameters). Please consult JJR LAB online customer service for precise timelines.
Examples:
- 40°C for 10 days (single immersion): Approx. 12 working days
- 70°C for 2 hours (single immersion): Approx. 5 working days
Unfortunately, no. Most European standards require testing by surface area, which is not feasible with powders, granules, or liquids. Plastic granules must be molded into sheets or panels before testing.
Please contact JJR LAB for case-specific advice.
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