As a buyer or operations manager in the food industry, there is a hefty responsibility on your shoulders. You ensure that a top-quality product reaches the consumer. But what if the packaging, the final shield around that product, is itself a risk? The search for truly food-safe packaging can be frustrating. You plow through the websites of official bodies such as RIVM and KIDV for rules, then try to find out from suppliers whether their products are truly compliant. Often you get superficial answers, while you are looking for certainty to allay fears of fines, reputation damage or a costly product recall.
You’re not looking for a product. You’re looking for a partner who takes this worry completely out of your hands. A partner that not only provides a box, but also the guarantee of security and expertise. In this guide, we give you the clarity you need. We unravel the complex world of certifications and legislation so you can make the right choice with confidence.
What does food safety in packaging really mean?
Food safety in packaging goes far beyond a “food grade” stamp. It means that no substance from the packaging should get into the food in a way that is harmful to health. We call this migration. It is about the chemical stability of the material, inks, adhesives and even how the packaging is produced and stored.
Many companies see packaging as an end station, but we see it as a crucial part of your quality chain. A weak link here can undermine the entire process. Choosing a packaging supplier is therefore a strategic decision. You need a party that understands and shares your responsibility. A company that, like us, is deeply rooted in craftsmanship and transparency. You can read more about us and our no-nonsense approach here.
The certificates deciphered BRC global standard versus HACCP
In the world of food safety, abbreviations fly around your ears. Two of the most important are BRC and HACCP. They are often mentioned in the same breath, but mean something completely different. It is essential that you know the difference.
HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) is a system. It is a method you implement in your company to identify and control all possible hazards in your production process. Your packaging is one of those potential hazards. So you must be confident that your supplier has covered this risk for you.
BRC Global Standard for Packaging Materials is the standard for packaging producers. It is not a system, but a rigorous certification that proves that a manufacturer has mastered its processes to perfection. It covers everything from raw material sourcing and hygiene protocols to product traceability. If a supplier is BRC certified, especially with the highest AA+ status like MultiTray, then you know they’ve already minimized the HACCP risks associated with packaging for you. This gives you the assurance you need for your own quality audits.
All about MOSH MOAH and testing
One of the biggest hidden risks is chemical migration. Substances such as MOSH (mineral oils of saturated hydrocarbons) and MOAH (mineral oils of aromatic hydrocarbons) can migrate from the packaging into the food. These substances can come from recycled paper or certain inks, for example. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the NVWA monitor this closely, and a violation can have serious consequences.
The fear of this kind of contamination is justified. The solution lies at the source: choosing the right material and a watertight production process. By working with high-quality monomaterials such as rPET, we drastically minimize the risks. Our CircularSource program ensures that we only use materials that are not only sustainable, but also proven safe for direct food contact. We prove this with extensive migration testing we perform for our products. Just ask your current supplier for their specific migration reports. A silence at the other end of the line is often an answer in itself.
How to choose the right partner for food-safe packaging
You don’t evaluate a product, you evaluate a partner. The right partner removes risks and creates opportunities. What do you look for when choosing?
- Demonstrable certification: Ask for more than just a logo on the website. Ask about BRC certification and its score. An AA+ score shows that the processes are top-notch.
- Material knowledge: Can the supplier explain to you exactly why a particular material, such as rPET or PP, is the best and safest choice for your particular product?
- Transparency: Do you get instant insight into test reports and compliance documents? A trusted partner has nothing to hide.
- Collaboration: Does the supplier think with you? Do they help you develop packaging that is not only safe and functional, but also presents your product perfectly? This is the core of our approach to customization.
A good partner will challenge you and proactively think with you about the best solution. Curious about what a new, safe packaging could look like for you? Then try our new product tool.
Our certified solutions in practice
Theory is important, but it’s all about the application in your practice. Our BRC AA+ certification is the foundation under all of our packaging lines.
- For the confectionery industry, we develop confectionary trays that not only protect delicate cookies and chocolates, but also meet the most stringent food contact requirements.
- For fresh products such as soft fruits or mushrooms, our fresh packs under the name “The One Pack” not only offer optimum freshness through Smart Atmosphere Control, but also the absolute guarantee of material safety.
Every package that leaves our Uden plant is the result of a process that combines safety, sustainability and functionality.
Frequently asked questions about food safety and packaging
Isn’t the highest BRC AA+ certification unnecessarily expensive?
It is an investment in risk prevention. The cost of a product recall, reputational damage or the loss of a major retail customer is many times greater than the added cost of guaranteed safe packaging. It’s not an expense; it’s insurance for your business continuity.
How do I check if my current supplier’s packaging is really adequate?
Be direct. Ask for the most recent BRC certificate and associated audit score. Ask specifically for migration reports for the materials you purchase. A reliable partner will provide these documents without hesitation.
Which material is safest for my specific product?
It depends on several factors, such as your product’s fat content, storage temperature and desired shelf life. There is no “one-size-fits-all” answer. This is exactly where a good partner makes all the difference. We would be happy to advise you on the best choice for your situation.
Ready for certainty?
Choosing a packaging partner is a choice for certainty or for invisible risk. If you’re ready to leave that uncertainty behind for good and work with a party that takes your responsibility seriously, it’s time for a conversation.
Let’s work together to see how we can ensure the safety and presentation of your product. Contact us today for a free consultation, or request an immediate quote for your specific packaging needs.
