South Korea signals its intention to
revise ‘Standards and Specifications for Food Utensils, Containers and
Packages’.
Circulated by the World Trade Organization
(WTO) in March 2020, the draft amendment, under Korean Ministry of Food and
Drug Safety (MFDS) announcement number 2020-97 of February 28, 2020 and attached to WTO document number 20-1701, contains
a number of important changes. These include:
- Revising common manufacturing standards and specifications
- Clarifying the use of recycled synthetic resins (recycled plastics) – allowed for materials and articles that do not come into direct contact with food. These recycled materials and articles must also not impart harmful substances into the food
- Adding a new requirement for rubber nipples for young children – no more than 0.5% total volatile organic matter (VOM). It also contains a corresponding test method
(200 °C, 4
hours)
Food contact articles are regulated in South
Korea under the Food Sanitation Act. Article 8 of this act prohibits the presence or use
of toxic/harmful chemicals in food contact utensils, containers
and packages which could endanger human health. It also directs the MFDS to
establish standards and specifications for these food contact materials and
articles.
Comments relating to the proposal were
accepted until May 3, 2020, and, in accordance with the proposal, the amendment
will come into effect upon publication.
SGS Food Contact Material Services
SGS’s technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and
articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the
appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for
compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests,
along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and
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about SGS’s Food
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Korea Proposes to Revise Standards and Specifications for Food Contact
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