Aspects related to the sanitary control of stretch plastic films for domestic use

Abstract

Introduction: Flexible and stretchable plastic films are the most used in residences and commercial establishments. Plastic materials, when used in direct contact with food, under appropriate conditions of use, cannot transfer contaminating or toxic substances to food, in quantities that represent a risk to human health. Objective: Evaluate stretch films plastic for domestic use purchased in commercial establishments for domestic use, simulating contact with fatty foods and make an approach on aspects related to labelling, food safety, and environment. Method: The total migration test was carried out by contacting plastic film with the fatty food simulant, 95% ethanol solution (v/v), for a period of 10 days at 40ºC and for 24 hours at 20ºC. The mean percentage values of mass loss of plastic films were determined after the migration test. Results: Stretch plastic films for domestic use in Brazil, analysed in contact with the fatty food simulant, showed total migration values above the limit established in the legislation. Foreign plastic films presented values of total migration at adequate levels and were considered safe; only one film presented a value above the maximum tolerable limit in Mercosul. In PVC stretch films, the percentage results of mass loss were from 21.75 to 25.67 (%) and in LDPE plastic films, percentage results were less than 1.00 (%). Conclusions: Data obtained in this study show the need for continuous monitoring in the quality control of stretch films plastic when used in direct contact with fatty foods. Both information on the plasticizer used in the stretch plastic films on the commercial packaging label, and guidance actions on the use and application of stretch plastic films should be implemented and encouraged by agencies for sanitary and environmental control, and for consumer protection.