Investigation of factors influencing the release of chloropropanols (3-MCPD and 1,3-DCP) from food contact paper

Chloropropanols such as 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) and 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol (1,3-DCP) have drawn increasing attention due to their release from food contact paper and their potential carcinogenic effects. In this study, the effects were investigated of water extraction conditions on release of chloropropanols from food contact paper, and the extraction efficiencies of chloropropanols by water extract and migration method were compared. Cold water was found to be more severe than hot water for extraction of chloropropanols, with the highest water extraction value obtained at 23 degrees C. Two hours of extraction was sufficient as the chloropropanols can be fully extracted from food contact paper within a short period of time. Increase of temperature in the range of 10 degrees C-60 degrees C had little impact on release of chloropropanols, however, the extraction of chloropropanols decreased when high temperatures (80 degrees C or above) were applied due to volatilisation losses. Hence, attention should be paid when choosing extract conditions representing the worst-case scenario. The water extraction value using EN 645 method gives higher results compared to migration test described in GB 31604.1 and GB 5009.156, suggesting that the water extract method was probably more severe. For migration test, aqueous-based simulants were found to be more conservative than oil-based simulants, suggesting the conventional experiment conditions applicable for compliance test of chloropropanols migration can be simplified and optimised.

Automated summary

The study found that cold water extraction is more effective for chloropropanols release, and 2 hours of extraction is sufficient. Chloropropanols extraction is impacted at temperatures above 80 degrees Celsius, so attention should be paid to worst-case scenario extraction conditions.