MM contributes to European discussions on food contact material safety

The regulatory framework for food contact materials in Europe continues to evolve, with future approaches also addressing paper and board. For MM, contributing practical industry expertise to these discussions is an important part of helping to ensure that future regulations reflect the realities of paper and board applications. 

In October, Sigrid Gerold, Head of Group Product Safety & Quality, represented MM and the European paper and board industry in two key expert discussions on the future safety assessment and regulation of food contact materials. On behalf of CEPI, CITPA, ECMA, EPPA and Pro Carton, she contributed the perspective and practical experience of the paper and board sector. 

Industry expertise meets regulatory principles at EFSA

At the EFSA FCM Network Meeting in Parma, the focus shifted from the broader regulatory discussion to practical application. Sigrid presented the paper and board industry’s approach to assessing the safety of virgin and recycled materials and articles, supported by two concrete case studies. Developed in collaboration with ISEGA, the underlying assessment dossiers provided a practical basis for discussion with experts from the EFSA FCM Working Group including representatives of national competent authorities. This allowed the paper and board industry to share its experience directly with the scientific and regulatory experts involved and to demonstrate how safety assessment approaches is applied in practice.

Towards a harmonised European approach

Both exchanges are part of the ongoing European work towards a more harmonised legislation on food contact materials, including paper and board. MM’s participation brings practical experience from pulp production, paper and board mills and converters into these discussions, helping to connect regulatory and scientific considerations with industry practice as future legal requirements are developed.