Presence of Bisphenol A in paper and cardboard food containers

3.4.2019

Question for written answer E-001636-19
to the Commission
Rule 130
Massimo Paolucci (S&D)

A recent investigation by a leading Italian magazine[1] identified the presence of Bisphenol A (BPA) in paper and cardboard food containers.

Laboratory tests showed specific migration levels of this dangerous substance, from the packaging to the food, between three and six times higher than the limits authorised for plastic materials and articles intended to come into contact with food.

This contamination apparently stems from the use of recycled paper in the packaging. Such use is banned in some Member States and permitted in others.

That being the case, can the Commission answer the following questions:

• 1.Will it revise EU legislation on the essential requirements for packaging, materials and articles intended to come into contact with food, and any other related legislation, with a view to harmonising the European legal framework on paper and cardboard containers? If so, when?
• 2.Will it take any measures to ban the use of recycled paper for the production of food packaging that poses a risk of migration of hazardous substances?
• 3.Will it ask the European Food Safety Authority to launch an EU-wide survey in order to check the extent of the problem brought to light by the tests carried out in Italy?

• [1] https://ilsalvagente.it/2019/03/22/bisfenolo-nei-cartoni-della-pizza-il-ministero-della-salute-sono-illegali/55390/