Studies on functional barriers to migration. I: Transfer of benzophenone from printed paperboard to microwaved food

Abstract

This paper reports studies of migration from paperboard used as packaging for microwave foods. It looks at the possible routes by which migrants may transfer. Ink components applied to the outer surface of paperboard packaging can also be present at the inner (potential food contact) surface. Substances may permeate through the board or transfer while the printed board is stored stacked or on the reel, and may subsequently transfer to foods. The photoinitiator, benzophenone, has been studied as a specific example of this general casse. Migration to foods microwaved in paperboard packaging was up to 1000 μg/kg. Migration up to 400 μg/kg occurred during storage prior to design: occuring by direct food contact, transient contact with splashed food, or by gas-phase diffusion through an air gap. These findings have implications not only for the migration of ink components but also for other substances found in board. This is of special interest should substances of concern arise in board from the use of recycled fibres