China Approves Two New Substances for Food Contact Materials

On December 13, 2024, China’s Department of Food Safety Standards and Risk Monitoring and Assessment announced that two substances, have passed the safety assessment for use in food contact materials (FCMs) as new varieties. The safety evaluation was conducted by an expert review organized by the relevant regulatory body in accordance with the requirements of the Food Safety Law of the People's Republic of China.

Background Information

Under China’s Food Safety Law, any substance intended for use in food contact materials and articles must undergo a rigorous safety evaluation before approval. This ensures that materials meet strict standards for safety and suitability for contact with food.

Newly Approved Substances

The safety evaluations resulted in the approval of the following two substances:

1. 1,3,5-Trimethyl-2,4,6-Tris(3,5-Di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)benzene (CAS No 1709-70-2): Approved as an additive for use in carbon monoxide-ethylene-propylene terpolymer plastic materials and products.

2. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (CAS No 147398-31-0): Approved for use in polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) plastic materials and products intended to come into contact with food. However, its use is subject to the following conditions:

• It cannot be used in applications where the temperature exceeds 100°C.

• It must not be used in the manufacture of food contact materials and products intended for infants.

• The material must comply with GB 4806.6-2016, China's national food safety standard.

For further information, please refer to the complete announcement and attached documentation here.