These Guidelines, prepared by the Supply Chain Communications for Recycled Applications in Food Packaging work group of the PLASTICS Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Packaging Materials Committee, provide a roadmap for understanding regulatory compliance for post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics in food-contact applications. While focused on the U.S., it addresses relevant issues for PCR plastics more broadly. The FDA does not require premarket review or special regulations for recycled polymers in food packaging, but compliance with purity requirements is necessary. The Guidelines discuss source control, decontamination processes, functional barriers, limitations on use, and testing to address concerns about contamination. Companies can establish compliance without FDA consultation, but may seek a “no objection letter” for customer assurance.
These Guidelines, prepared by the Supply Chain Communications for Recycled Applications in Food Packaging work group of the PLASTICS Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Packaging Materials Committee, provide a roadmap for understanding regulatory compliance for post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics in food-contact applications. While focused on the U.S., it addresses relevant issues for PCR plastics more broadly. The FDA does not require premarket review or special regulations for recycled polymers in food packaging, but compliance with purity requirements is necessary. The Guidelines discuss source control, decontamination processes, functional barriers, limitations on use, and testing to address concerns about contamination. Companies can establish compliance without FDA consultation, but may seek a “no objection letter” for customer assurance.
