Biological risk of inks in food packaging
It's probably that my brain is tired and I will most likely feel less than bright when you start answering me :doh: but.....
In HACCP analysis for Food Packaging where there is ink on the exterior of the package.....what would a biological risk be?
It's probably that my brain is tired and I will most likely feel less than bright when you start answering me :doh: but.....
In HACCP analysis for Food Packaging where there is ink on the exterior of the package.....what would a biological risk be?
Dear Snookie,
It depends on what the ink is made from. Sometimes red insects from memory. Very organic :smile:
Perhaps the Chemical aspect is of more immediate interest ?. IMEX, ink suppliers become extremely coy when you request info. as to Food Grade characteristics. Usually "it's non-toxic" is the most popular response.
Rgds / Charles.C
Thank you Charles. No buggies and it is as non-toxic as you can get with inks. Meets all the hazardous materials rules, but was wondering if they were susceptible to organisms ( I wouldn't think so)....but my brain has been a bit strained these days and just wondering if I am missing something.
Hi Snookie,
You don't say the type of ink e.g. solvent based, water based, UV etc. I doubt bugs can survive in inks anyhow and inks are dried with hot air, UV light and usually printed on non-contact side of packaging. I've never considered it or been asked to. :smile:
Thanks Simon. As said, my brain was really tired and truthfully between kids and hours at work, knew I was missing the forest for the trees. Your exactly right, UV, heat, environment all prevent biological issues.....but at last the light came on and was able to word the why's. :blush:
No problem Snookie, enjoy your weekend. :smile:
Carmine Red is made from cochineal insects. There could be a very slight chance that there might be biological contamination.
I have seen this as more of a kosher issue (branded food identity in SQF) since eating insects is prohibited under kosher law.
I work at a plant that produces printed flexible packaging - mostly reverse printed (inside layer) but some surface printing. The printing inks, varnishes and other coatings that we use are not regulated by the FDA and thus need a functional barrier (similar to what is required for certain adhesives 21 CFR 175.105).
We consider inks and other coatings to be more of a chemical hazard than a biological hazard since they should not contain any biologically active materials.