Characterization of plastic packaging additives: Food contact, stability and toxicity

Abstract

Plastic additives are analyzed by spectrometric (FTIR, ICP-AES) and chromatographic (GC/MS, HPLC) methods in order to define their stability, purity and toxicity. All findings relate to the compounds identified in our packaging and their effect on human health. We wanted to show that some additives contain heavy metals (lead, cobalt, nickel, copper, etc.), highly toxic phtalates (Dibutyl phtalate or DBP) and contaminants (Non-intentionally added substances: NIAS, degradation products). Some additives used are even carcinogenic or tumorigenic.

Keywords

• Antioxidants
• Endocrine disruptors
• Heavy metals
• Phtalates
• Spectrometry
• NIAS