Food packaging: how the FHERITALE project changes material safety

When it comes to food safety, packaging is an aspect that must be carefully considered. Especially in the case of primary packaging, which comes into direct contact with food, it is necessary to keep current regulations and their evolution in mind, in order to provide partners with top-level support. Food packaging manufacturers must not only comply with national provisions but are also required to know the regulations issued at the European level. Recently, Reg. (EU) 10/2011 underwent changes through the XV amendment. The evolution of FCM regulations and food packaging Products intended for food contact often involve combining plastic films and paper. The latter must comply with regulations before being placed on the market. The regulatory framework dealing with Food Contact Materials (FCM) is quite complex and, following the evolution of the packaging market and the introduction of new packaging solutions, it has expanded over time. Specifically, we can mention Reg. 178/2002, which introduced the theme of packaging safety from a food safety perspective for the first time. Another step forward is represented by the Framework Regulation for all FCMs through Reg. 1935/2004. In Article 3 of this document, a very important concept is stated: packaging in contact with food must not pose a risk to the consumer, and the organoleptic characteristics of the product must be preserved. Reg. 2023/2006 focused on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The regulation aims to govern all actions that safeguard the compliance of FCMs at every stage of their life cycle: from production to final use. Specific regulations: which materials are subject to ad hoc requirements? European regulations are enriched by five specific regulations concerning materials such as regenerated cellulose, ceramics, active and intelligent materials, plastic objects, and recycled plastic. Furthermore, there are regulations dedicated to certain starting substances useful for the production of FCMs. The only materials not subject to a specific regulation are paper and cardboard. In this case, Member States can refer to national standards. The new Regulation (EU) 1245/2020 - plastic materials and articles intended to come into contact with food: what does the standard prescribe? Among the most comprehensive and complex documents is certainly Regulation (EU) 10/2011, which concerns plastic materials and articles intended to come into contact with food. The regulation has been revised and amended several times based on natural changes, as well as a new ecological awareness that favors leaner, more sustainable, and recyclable packaging. A recent amendment, dating back to September 2, 2020, is represented by the XV amendment of the European Commission. Through this document, the aim was to restrict the use of certain substances; therefore, the amendment presents new authorized substances and establishes new migration limits for other substances. Furthermore, to make the restrictions on the use of certain materials more effective, the XV amendment adds and modifies some of the procedures and conditions present in Annex V, which focused on migration testing. In essence, the XV amendment replaces Annex II on restrictions for certain materials and also for plastic articles. In this case, we are talking about metals and primary aromatic amines. The measure also replaced the Declaration of Compliance (DoC), regulated in point 6 of Annex IV. Other heavy metals have been added to the currently active list of unsafe materials. Among the latter, we can include arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury, and antimony. Restrictions are present for certain types of plastics and lanthanides, such as lanthanum, europium, gadolinium, and terbium for polyolefins. The changes introduced, however, do not eliminate previously established measures. In fact, the modifications apply to production and not to products already placed on the market or present as stock. To meet these requirements, the product must have been placed on the market for the first time on March 23, 2021. How to handle multilayer and multi-material packaging? Another issue closely affecting the paper production and processing sector is multilayer and multi-material packaging. In detail, if a multilayer packaging has a plastic part that comes into direct contact with food, it must possess all the characteristics required by the regulation. If the plastic layer is separated from the food by a functional barrier, then other materials not present in the regulation may also be used, provided they are not carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic. In such cases, European regulations defer to national laws. For years, CART-ONE has held a leading position in the production of corrugated cardboard packaging. Thanks to a know-how oriented towards innovation and the search for specific solutions for each customer, we are the perfect partner to support companies in the Food & Beverage sector that want to focus on cutting-edge and eco-sustainable solutions.

Sustainability is one of the most pressing issues of our time. With the goal of meeting the needs of current generations without compromising the future, packaging is taking on an extremely important role in promoting responsible and circular practices. In the context of Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), packaging is at the center of global strategies to reduce waste and promote the circular economy.   Packaging, sustainability, and the role of the responsible consumer: a global challenge. In this article, we explore how packaging can contribute to a sustainable future and the role that the responsible consumer can play in this change.   To learn more: “29th Comieco Report: paper and cardboard recycling in Italy, 2023 marks a new historic record”   Packaging and sustainability: the challenge of the 21st century Eurostat data from 2021 highlight the urgency of the issue: in the EU, 188.7 kg of packaging waste per inhabitant were generated, representing a 10% increase compared to 2020. Among these, 40.3% consists of paper and cardboard, followed by plastic (19%) and glass (18.5%). This increase is mainly due to the growth of e-commerce, home deliveries, and the consumption of take-away products. Packaging sustainability is no longer just an environmental issue, but an economic and social one as well. Target 12.8 of Agenda 2030 emphasizes the importance of educating consumers to adopt more responsible lifestyles, thereby influencing corporate strategies and reducing environmental impact.   The crucial role of packaging Packaging is not merely a functional element to protect products, but also a medium to communicate values of sustainability and innovation. Packaging choices can significantly influence environmental impact throughout the entire product lifecycle. 1. Waste reduction and recycling Single-use plastic packaging represents a significant challenge. In 2021, each European citizen generated an average of 35.9 kg of plastic packaging waste, with an average recycling rate of 39.6%. Despite past improvements, recycling is not enough to offset the increase in generated waste. A more incisive approach is needed, one that promotes recyclable materials like paper and cardboard, which are easily integrated into a circular economy. 2. Innovations in sustainable packaging Alternative materials, such as cardboard functionalized with mineral coatings, are revolutionizing the packaging industry. This type of packaging is resistant to moisture, grease, and temperature, guaranteeing the same functionality as single-use plastic but with a significantly reduced environmental impact. Cart-One offers recyclable cardboard packaging solutions designed to meet sustainability needs and high performance. 3. Reusable packaging Although reusable packaging offers advantages in specific contexts like school cafeterias or airports, its environmental impact depends heavily on the washing phase and the efficient management of returns. In many cases, recycled cardboard remains the most practical and sustainable choice, especially for food products and beverages.   The responsible consumer: driver of change Consumers play a fundamental role in the transition toward a more sustainable economy. According to a PwC study, 78% of people are willing to pay more for products made with recycled or eco-friendly materials. This data underscores the importance for companies to invest in sustainable practices and communicate them transparently. Evolving behaviors: 54% of Italians have chosen different brands in favor of more sustainable packaging. 18% stopped buying products with packaging deemed non-ecological. 59% of consumers prefer packaging without excess wrapping. These numbers prove that sustainability is no longer an option, but an indispensable requirement for companies that want to remain competitive in the market.   The regulatory scenario: Europe at the forefront From the European Green Deal to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), the European Union is working to harmonize regulations and promote a sustainable economic model. Among the most relevant initiatives we find: Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD): to integrate human rights and the environment into corporate governance. Circular Economy Action Plan: with over 30 points aimed at the prevention and reduction of packaging waste. Nature Restoration Law: to restore degraded ecosystems. These measures represent a challenge, but also an opportunity for companies to innovate and contribute to a more sustainable future.   Cart-One: packaging solutions for a sustainable future Cart-One is committed to turning sustainability into reality, offering packaging solutions designed to reduce environmental impact without compromising functionality and aesthetics. Why choose Cart-One? Recycled and recyclable materials: our corrugated cardboard solutions are 100% eco-friendly and guarantee a sustainable lifecycle. Innovation in design: packaging designed to minimize waste, reduce emissions, and meet the expectations of conscious consumers. Regulatory support: compliance with European directives to help you meet legislative requirements and strengthen your image as a responsible brand. Packaging is at the center of the challenge for a more sustainable economy. With the growing role of the responsible consumer and the evolution of regulations, companies must adopt innovative solutions to respond to new market demands.   Choose Cart-One for your packaging: together, we can build a more sustainable future.   Contact us to discover our solutions and give your brand a competitive edge.   Read also: “Paper and cardboard food packaging: a sustainable revolution in the world of packaging”

Cart-One was pleased to host the annual Sales and Board Meeting of Blue Box Partners in Parma. 28 participants shared a unique goal: to grow in Europe and to increasingly become the point of reference for innovation, quality, and service for our clients.