Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons (MOH) in Food Packaging
Mineral oils are hydrocarbons produced by the distillation of crude oil that are used in a wide range of applications, whether as a lubricant, a fuel, or a component for certain types of plastics or packaging materials.
The largest concern with the use of mineral oil in packaging is potential migration to food: "mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH)" contamination. When Mineral Oil contaminates the food products, it can potentially transfer harmful chemicals which are classified as carcinogenic and/or genotoxic.
In field studies, a wide variety of packaged food products have been found to be contaminated with mineral oil, from grains and cereals to potato chips and baked goods, including canned or frozen goods and confectionery.
Genuine Vegetable Parchment performance as a MOH Barrier
In line with our ambition to propose a fiber-based barrier from MOH contamination, the MOSH and MOAH barrier performance of GVP was measured according to leading testing methods. Several GVP products were tested, including Sulpack®.
Ahlstrom worked with a certified, recognized third party laboratory, known for its expertise on MOH, to simulate and measure the MOH barrier performance. The testing methodology was developed according to two EU leading food contact standards: BfR and JRC.
The tests carried out with an independent laboratory confirmed our Genuine Vegetable Parchment provides an outstanding mineral oil (MOSH-MOAH) barrier to several kind of primary packaging and prevents cross-contamination from secondary packaging.
What are potential packaging applications of Genuine Vegetable Parchment used as a Mineral Oil barrier?
Considering its Mineral Oil barrier properties level, GVP can be used in a variety of applications to help prevent contamination of food products and other consumer goods. The biggest potential of using GVP as a MOH barrier will be to use as a barrier liner on a primary packaging like board containing recycled fibers. Some potentials end-use of applications include Food, Pharmaceutical, Medical and any industrial packaging.
What are the benefits of using GVP as a sustainable packaging barrier to MOSH and MOAH? Protection of food products: GVP can effectively prevent the migration of MOSH and MOAH from the packaging into the food product, thereby ensuring the safety and quality of the food for consumption.
Health risks reduction: By preventing the migration of MOH, GVP can reduce health risk that are associated with exposure to these chemicals.
Compliance with MOH recommendations and foodstuffs regulations: Using a barrier packaging can help manufacturers to follow the current recommendations and the upcoming regulations. Consumer confidence: By using a packaging barrier, manufacturers can demonstrate to consumers that they are taking steps to ensure the safety and quality of their products, which can help to build consumer trust and confidence in the brand.
Environmentally friendly: Using a sustainable barrier can also be an environmentally friendly approach, as it reduces the need to use excessive packaging materials and reduces potential waste.