FCM Food Contact Materials Certification

Definition and Product Scope of FCM

What are Food Contact Materials (FCM)?

Definition: In simple terms, they refer to all materials or products that may come into contact with food, including direct contact (e.g., tableware��, packaging��) and indirect contact (e.g., production equipment, transportation tools).

Common Types of FCM Products

①　Packaging Materials: Plastic bags, glass bottles, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, etc.

②　Tableware and Kitchenware: Knives, forks, bowls, plates, cups, cookware, cutting boards, oven trays, etc.

③　Kitchen Appliance Components: Coffee machine liners, juicer filters, electric kettle inner walls, etc.

④　Children’s Products: Baby bottles, pacifiers, children’s tableware, complementary food storage boxes, etc.

⑤　Others: Food processing machinery, conveyor belts, food container sealing rings, etc.

Key Testing Items for FCM Testing

Testing items are determined based on material types and target regulations. Common items are as follows:

1. Migration Testing (Core Item!)

Simulant Testing: Samples are soaked in different "food simulants", including water, 3% acetic acid (sour), 10% ethanol (alcoholic), and olive oil (oily), to detect migrated substances.

2. Key Tested Substances

①　Heavy Metals: Lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, etc.

②　Organic Compounds: Phthalates (plasticizers), BISphenol A, formaldehyde, etc.

③　Specific Material Contaminants: Lead/cadmium dissolution in ceramics, fluorescent brighteners in paper products, etc.

3. Sensory and Physical Properties

①　Sensory Testing: Is there any strange smell? Will it alter the taste of food?

②　Physical Properties: Is it sturdy enough? Is it high-temperature resistant? How about its sealing performance?

4. Hygiene and Microbiological Indicators

For tableware and baby products, the following indicators shall be tested: total bacterial count, coliforms, pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Salmonella).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is FCM testing a certification?

A: No, it is not a certification. It is a testing report issued in accordance with the regulations of various countries (which can be used for customs clearance).

Q: Are there any special requirements for FCM testing of children’s products?

A: Yes! For products like baby bottles, additional testing for phthalates is required (e.g., DEHP restriction under eu reach).

Q: What is the validity period of the test report?

A: Usually 1 year. However, if there are changes in materials/processes or updates in regulations, re-testing is required.

Q: What is the relationship between CE certification and FCM?

A: CE is a mandatory certification for industrial products in the EU. FCM products must separately comply with regulations such as EC 1935/2004. If the product is an electronic device (e.g., coffee machine liner), it must meet both CE and FCM requirements.

Q: What about the testing cost and cycle?

A: Cost: USD 589 for simple products (e.g., plastic cups). Cycle: 5–7 working days under normal circumstances, which may be extended if rectification is needed.

Tips: Testing requirements vary greatly in different export countries! It is recommended to confirm the regulations of the target market in advance to avoid potential risks.