Ashland--a supplier of adhesives and coatings used in flexible packaging--has published a white paper to help educate the industry about the perils of the current environment. 

“Everyone is asking questions about rights, roles and responsibilities,” says author Joseph Spinnato, regulatory compliance manager for Ashland. “This white paper will help everyone across the supply chain understand how they can work together to minimize the risks posed by the changing landscape. It also offers a process outline, along with supporting data, for how to properly use migration studies during packaging development to help determine if products are fit for use.”

The white paper addresses technology trends, such as the use of ultraviolet (UV), electron beam (EB) and UV light-emitting diode radiation-curable materials. It also provides insights on regulations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority.

“There is no room for assumptions when it comes to consumer safety,” says Cindy Fruth, industry manager, laminating adhesives and coatings for Ashland. “Companies can’t afford the financial hit from a recall, nor can they afford to lose the public’s trust in their brand.”

Material suppliers must be cognizant of the potential hazards their products may bring to the food packaging. This can only be done by knowing the components of the raw material supply chain, their conditions of use, the types of food to be packaged, and the migration potential of the packaging components. This white paper provides insight to this critical process.

The paper is available as a free download from Ashland.com.

Sign up for Food Safety Magazine’s bi-weekly emails!