SGS Examines the Safe Use of Recycled Plastics in Food Contact Materials
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / AGILITYPR.NEWS / July 15, 2025 / SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published a Consumer Compact article examining the use of recycled plastics in food contact applications.
As governments and industries seek ways to reduce plastic pollution and promote circular economy principles, the use of recycled plastics is gaining momentum. However, when applied to food contact materials, recycled content must meet strict safety and traceability requirements to prevent harmful contaminants from entering the food supply.
The article outlines the contamination risks associated with recycled plastics, such as the presence of non-food-grade materials, residual chemicals and microbiological hazards. It also presents key regulatory frameworks, including Regulation (EU) 2022/1616, the EU Single-Use Plastic Directive and national laws like France’s AGEC and the UK’s plastic packaging tax.
In the US, the article highlights the voluntary No Objection Letter (NOL) program operated by the FDA, which assesses whether recycled plastic can be safely used in food contact materials. The process includes detailed documentation, a challenge test and contaminant analysis.
With plastic use projected to grow significantly by 2040, the question is no longer whether recycled plastics will be used in food contact materials, but how to ensure their safe and compliant integration into the supply chain.
Read the original Consumer Compact article, ‘Navigating the Challenges of Using Recycled Plastics in Food Contact Materials’.
SGS solutions SGS provides end-to-end support for manufacturers and recyclers seeking regulatory approval for recycled plastics in food contact applications. Our services include EFSA and FDA NOL application support, challenge testing, factory audits, document reviews and labeling verification.
Through the IMPACT NOW for sustainability initiative, we offer targeted solutions under our circularity pillar to help reduce reliance on virgin plastics and promote responsible recycling practices. These services empower businesses to meet compliance requirements while supporting global sustainability goals.
Learn more about SGS’s food contact material services.
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About Us
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
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ben@sugarloafmarketing.comSugarloaf Marketing, Broad Oak, UK
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