EN 13130-16 Testing of Plasticizers in Food Contact

Comprehensive Guide to EN 13130-16 Testing of Plasticizers in Food Contact Laboratory Testing Service

EN 13130-16 is a European Standard that outlines the testing requirements for plasticizers used in food contact materials and articles. The standard provides guidelines for the measurement of plasticizers in various food simulants, including water, oil, and fatty foods. This section will provide an overview of the relevant standards, legal and regulatory framework, and international and national standards that apply to this specific laboratory test.

Relevant Standards

The following standards are related to EN 13130-16:

Legal and Regulatory Framework

The use of plasticizers in food contact materials and articles is regulated by various laws and regulations. In the European Union, for example, the Regulation (EU) No. 1935/2004 on Food Contact Materials sets out the requirements for the safety assessment of food contact materials. The regulation requires that food contact materials meet specific migration limits for certain substances, including plasticizers.

International and National Standards

The international standards mentioned above are widely adopted by countries worldwide. However, some countries have their own national standards that may be more stringent than the international standards. For example, in Japan, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has established its own set of regulations for food contact materials, which include specific requirements for plasticizers.

Standard Development Organizations

The development of standards is a collaborative effort between standard development organizations (SDOs), industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies. In the case of EN 13130-16, the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) played a key role in its development.

How Standards Evolve and Get Updated

Standards evolve over time as new research emerges, and regulatory requirements change. The standardization process typically involves:

1. Identification of need: A recognized need or gap in existing standards is identified.

2. Drafting of proposal: A draft proposal is prepared and submitted to the relevant SDO for review.

3. Committee approval: The proposal is reviewed and approved by a committee composed of experts from various stakeholders.

4. Publication: The approved standard is published and made available to the public.

Specific Standard Numbers and Their Scope

The following are specific standard numbers related to EN 13130-16:

Standard Compliance Requirements for Different Industries

The compliance requirements for standard EN 13130-16 vary depending on the industry. For example:

EN 13130-16 is a critical test for ensuring the safety of food contact materials and articles. This section will explain why this specific test is needed, required, and conducted.

Why This Test Is Needed

The use of plasticizers in food contact materials and articles can pose risks to human health and the environment. EN 13130-16 testing helps to ensure that these substances do not migrate from packaging into foodstuffs, thereby protecting consumer safety.

Business and Technical Reasons for Conducting EN 13130-16 Testing

Conducting EN 13130-16 testing provides several benefits:

Consequences of Not Performing This Test

Not conducting EN 13130-16 testing can result in significant consequences, including:

Industries and Sectors That Require This Testing

The following industries and sectors require EN 13130-16 testing:

Risk Factors and Safety Implications

EN 13130-16 testing helps to mitigate the risks associated with plasticizers in food contact materials and articles, including:

Standard Requirements for EN 13130-16 Testing

The standard requires that testing be conducted using specific methods and apparatus to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results.

Test Methods and Equipment

EN 13130-16 testing involves the use of various test methods and equipment, including:

Quality Control and Assurance

To ensure the accuracy and reliability of results, laboratories must follow strict quality control and assurance procedures.

Test Report Requirements

The standard requires that test reports include specific information, including:

Standard Requirements for EN 13130-16 Certification

Certification to EN 13130-16 involves an independent assessment of the testing laboratorys competence and quality management system.

Test Report Requirements for Certification

The standard requires that test reports include specific information, including:

Certification Body Requirements

Certification bodies must be recognized by a national accreditation body and adhere to international standards for certification (e.g., ISO/IEC 17065).

Test Report Requirements for Certification

The standard requires that test reports include specific information, including:

Standard Requirements for EN 13130-16 Re-Certification

Re-certification to EN 13130-16 involves a periodic review of the laboratorys competence and quality management system.

Test Report Requirements for Re-Certification

The standard requires that test reports include specific information, including:

Certification Body Requirements for Re-Certification

Certification bodies must be recognized by a national accreditation body and adhere to international standards for certification (e.g., ISO/IEC 17065).

Please note that the above is just a sample guide, please make sure to check with the relevant authorities and standardization bodies for the most up-to-date information on EN 13130-16.