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Toxic Metals in Paper and Paperboard Food Packagings
Gülnur Mertoğlu-Elmas * and Gamze Çınar
This study characterized the structure of food packages, determined the
amount of toxic metals that pass through the package (due to the package’s
condition and contact with food), and examined the appropriateness of
current food legislation. The food packages were examined for weight, ash
content, and optical properties under two different light sources. The toxic
metal quantities of the packages were analyzed with the use of an
inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES ). In
all packages, Pb migrated into food and was found at levels that exceeded
limit values. Although the amounts of Hg within the material structure were
above limits in most packages, it did not migrate from the packages.
Although the amount of Cd in structural packaging did not exceed the limit
values, most of the migration-related values were high. The Zn
concentration in packaging was substantially higher than the amount due
to migration. Structural Cu values were mostly below the limit values,
except in corrugated boards. Cr amounts in both packaging structure and
migration were below the limit values. In all packaging, there were minimum
amounts of Ni among paperboard samples and maximum amounts among
corrugated boards. Al values were high among structural paper packages,
as well as in migration values in paperboard packaging.
Keywords: Toxic metals; Heavy metals; Migration; Food packaging; Paper; Paperboard; Corrugated
board
Contact information: Department of Forest Industrial Engineering, Istanbul University, 34473, Sariyer,
İstanbul, Turkey; * Corresponding author:
[email protected]
INTRODUCTION
Packaging generally has the basic functions of protection, containing, and
informing. In addition to these functions of food packaging, it is important for it to become
a container that transports the food from the vendor to the table. It becomes both a package
and at the same time a plate used on the table by preserving taste, smell, warmth, and
freshness of the food in this process. During this function, it is expected that no
contaminants and toxic components migrate into the food through the contact of the food
with the structure of the packaging. Food packaging products containing end consumer
usage areas include convenience food packages such as lahmacun, pita and pizza, tea bags,
baking papers, coffee filters, wrapped solid fat packaging, sugar bags, dry packaging, and
frozen food packaging, which directly get into contact with the food substances. These
packaging products include paper, paperboard, and corrugated board-based substrates
processed with operations such as coating, sizing which have various and different
characteristics depending on the field of use.
The structure of the paper is formed from pulp that may contain virgin fiber,
recycled fiber, or portions of each. The virgin pulp production and bleaching process forms
mainly the basic production processes and chemical components of the paper used in these
processes. In the next stage, sizing, coating, and printing operations are applied as finishing
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processes to the basic paper (Caner et al. 2006). In this processing stage, dyes, pigments,
paper reinforcing chemical agents, and ink components are added to the structure of paper
(Caner et al. 2006). Being different from the virgin fiber-containing pulp, the basic
components of the pulp containing recycled pulps include filler agents coming from virgin
pulp, opacity and coloring pigments and dyes, binding components, and printing ink
ingredients in addition to the pulp containing recycled fibers In order to improve the
resistance and other properties of the paper, recycled base paper is produced with the
chemical additives used. In order to improve the surface characteristics of recycled base
paper, the process includes sizing, paper coating, dyeing, and the chemical components of
printing inks are incorporated as contaminants and toxic components (Binderup et al. 2010).
Paper and paperboard materials that are laminated with aluminum and plastic layers
are used widely in food packages. According to EU-15 (2003), it is estimated that the per
capita amount of coated paperboard packaging in direct contact with food is 4.4 kg (17%).
The majority of this amount (70 to 80%) consists of milk and drink liquid paperboard
packaging (Heikkla and Rajala 2000; The European paper and board food packaging chain
2012; Castle 2014).
Mineral materials called fillers are present in the structure of the paper by addition
to the fiber suspension and surface coating in order to improve the appearance and qualities
of the of paper and paperboard. Fillers can contribute as partial barriers to prevent migration
and to preserve flavor, aroma, and freshness of the beverage liquids and similar food with
oil, salt, and flavoring in the packages. Fillers may comprise up to 25% of the weight,
depending on the type of paper produced. The main functions of fillers used in paper are
listed below:
Increase in opacity, paper dimensional stability, and whiteness.
Printing quality may be improved due to the smoother surface that can be achieved
with the use of fillers.
The addition of calcium carbonate filler, by increasing the pH of paper forming,
tends to reduce the rate of degradation of paper properties due to aging.
Colorants used to improve properties of optic and surface include impurities such
as heavy metals such as Pb, Hg, Cd, and Cr due to the chemicals composing them.
Laminated paper, which includes zinc sulphide, zinc oxide, and also the
combination of lithopene (zinc sulphide in combination with barium sulphate), increases
the quality of paperboard products and wall paper (Bostancı 1987; Vaarasalo 1999; Erkan
and Malayoğlu 2001; Mauriello et al. 2004; Conti 2007, 2008).
Optical characteristics tests, which give CIE whiteness (W) and ISO brightness, are
used to measure the attractiveness of paper. Fluorescent whiteners are highly effective and
practical materials in developing paper attractiveness (Aksoy et al. 2003; Hubbe et al. 2008;
Coppel 2010; Kim et al. 2017; Sönmez 2017). In paperboard food packaging, the printing
methods and their inks are very important in their role of providing food-related
information, promotional text and images, and functionality of the packaging. The structure
of the printing ink varies according to the printing method. Mainly offset, gravure, and
flexographic printing methods are used on food packaging. The main structure of the
printing ink consists of colorants, insoluble organic and inorganic pigments, and soluble
dyes. The printing ink supplementary materials are formed by the polymers and solvents
used to bond or fix the ink pigments on the submaterial (Martin-Dias 1994; Mertoğlu-Elmas
2017; Sönmez 2017).
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Studies have been made on the adjustment of the amount of toxic metals resulting
from pigments forming colors in printing ink prescriptions. A change was found in the
direction of decrease or increase in toxic metals existing as impurity in the chemical
structure of components forming colors in the development of printing ink prescriptions.
This change showed that printing inks can be regulated to remove toxic metals (Sutter 1994;
Mertoğlu-Elmas 2017). In another study, red, blue, green, yellow, black, and white colour
tones of tattoo inks were found to include toxic metals (Pb, Hg, Zn, Cd, Cu, Ni). Toxic
metal values exceeding a maximum limit of Epa 2012 legislation were found in green color
tones and blue and white colors, respectively (Ministry of Health 2013).
Fluorescent, metallic and similar inks containing toxic metals in large proportions
obviously expose individuals to environmental hazards. Spot colors are created with a
pantone matching system (PMS). In many PMS colors, the presence of copper, barium, or
both, and more than 40 metals in a single metal, constitutes a potential health risk (Zalewski
1994).
The appearance of the substrates of paper-based packages are developed with
coating, dyeing, and printing processes. Contamination from the surface and printing ink
colors of paper-based food packaging is a major source of toxic metals (EPA/310-R-02-002
2002). The identification of a large part of the characterization of the packages is determined
by measuring the optical properties of the colors and brightness. The other part is formed
by the percentage of ash and basis weight.
The chemical additive components of the processes used for improving the basic
content and surface characteristics of the cardboard used in food packaging products cause
risks for food safety, human health, and environmental pollution. An important group of
components that cause toxicological effects among these components is toxic metals (Conti
1997; Conti and Botrè 1997; Leks-Stepien 2011; FSSAI 2016). The identification of toxic
metals migrating from paper-based packages through food migration is crucial in ensuring
the quality and safety of packaging and in assessing compliance with food legislation
guidelines that potentially affect human health.
Within the scope of this aim, the characterization of some food packaging structures
and the determination of toxic metals originating from both structure and migration have
been interpreted for their compliance with food legislation. In addition, the relationship
between the ash, weight and optical characteristics parameters describing the structural
characterization of the package and toxic metals was interpreted and also tested with
Pearson correlation relationship using SPSS 17.0 packet program.
EXPERIMENTAL
Materials
The samples were collected at Istanbul, Turkey, fast food restaurants and wrapped with
stretch film for storage. Samples were paper, paperboard, corrugated board wrappers, and
related food packaging. At least three specimens were collected in each sample. Samples
were obtained by collecting unopened food packages from fast food chains and individual
ready-made food restaurants and wrapping them with PE film stretch. Different types of
papers that come into contact with food directly include paper, bag, and container-type
packages. At least three specimens were collected for each type of test sample. The
packages were manufactured of paper, cardboard, and corrugated cardboard base materials.
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These are used as the main packaging materials, in addition to Al foil and polyethylene (PE)
film side materials. The base materials are directly used individually or as laminated in
combination with each other. The side materials are used together with the basic materials
to enhance the appeal and the attractiveness of the packages in different functions. The
packaging samples described are given in Table 1. In addition, characterization of
packaging samples have been described according to their color (optic properties),
grammage, and ash test.
Table 1. Description of the Analysed Packaging Samples
Paper Packaging
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Inner wrapping
paper
Outer wrapping
paper
Wrapping paper 1
Wraping paper 2
Hamburger paper
Paper bag
Flour packaging
White coated, low-grammage paper
Coated, white colour, printed thin paper
Coated brown paper
Coated thin paper
White bleached printed thin paper
Brown kraft, low-grammage paper
Outer layer white and printed, inner layer brown kraft paper
Paperboard Packaging
8
9
10
French fries
Pasta 1
Pasta 2
11
Cake
12
Pita 1
Coated white paperboard
Coated, dense dark colored, mat lacquered, printed
Coated, dense dark colored, mat lacquered, printed
Grey, recycled printed box laminated from inside with white plastic
film, upper surface laminated with dense colored, painted and
bright lacquered paper PE film
Outer surface laminated with paper coated by PE film lacquered
with recycled, yellow bright color, inner surfaces smooth and grey
Corrugated Board Packaging
13
Lahmacun 1
14
Lahmacun 2
15
Pita 4
16
Pita 5
17
Pizza 1
18
Pizza 2
Bottom surface and printed upper surface and laminated with
imitation (recycled kraft test liner) carrier surface paper; one
middle fluting layer
Bottom surface and printed upper surface and laminated with
imitation (recycled kraft test liner) carrier surface paper; one
middle fluting layer
Corrugated board packaging with imitation kraft test liner carrier
including recycled material and one middle floating layer
Imitation kraft test liner carrier including recycled material and
one middle fluting layer
Upper surface is laminated whitened and printed paper, imitation
kraft test liner carrier including recycled material and one middle
fluting layer
Upper surface is laminated whitened and printed paper, imitation
kraft test liner carrier including recycled material and one middle
fluting layer
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Methods
Charactarization of packaging
Dry matter, grammage, ash determination, and optical property tests according to
C/2o light source were determined for characterization of packaging samples. The
determination of toxic metal migration to the food due to the structure of the packaging was
performed separately. Dry matter determination was performed according to the method
specified in ISO 287 (2009) using a drying oven (Nüve FN 400, Istanbul, Turkey). Weight
measurements were performed using a digital scale (Scaltec 31, Istanbul, Turkey). Other
standards used included: standard climate conditions (ISO 187, 1990); grammage
determinations (ISO 536 1998), ash content (ISO 1762 2015), and CIE whiteness (ISO
11476 2010).
The optical properties test was used to make the definitions color of packaging
samples. Optical properties were measured using an Elrepho 070R (Istanbul, Turkey), using
indoor light C/2o according to ISO 11476 2010. The standard tests were carried out
according to C/2o light source; CIE whiteness, L*, a*, b* (C/2°); TS ISO 5631-1 (2009);
CIE whiteness, L*, a*, b*, ISO 7724 (1984) (Zwinkels and Noel 2014); C/2o ISO brightness
the ISO 3688 (1999); the yellowness (Y) index test the DIN 6167 (1980).
Toxic metal content
Instrumentation: The samples were digested using a microwave oven (Berghof,
Istanbul, Turkey). The measurements were made using an inductively coupled plasma
optical emission spectrometry ICP-OES device (Perkin Elmer Optima 7000 DV, Istanbul,
Turkey) and ICP-MS (Thermo Scientific Series 2, Istanbul, Turkey) for measurements of
Hg content.
Toxic metals for structural sources in packaging: Samples, whose basis weights and
dry matter estimates were determined, were prepared for heavy metal analysis by manually
tearing the samples with plastic gloves with 0.4 to 0.5 g dry weights. Samples were placed
in Teflon tubes for structural toxic/heavy metal analysis and 5 mL of 5% nitric acid (HNO3)
and 2 mL of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were added. Digeston was performed in microwave
oven (Berghof, Istanbul, Turkey) according to EPA Method 3052 (1996) given in Table 2
and by considering the microwave heating programs. The amounts of toxic metals in the
prepared solutions were determined on the ICP-OES and ICP-MS instruments by filtering
the solutions through blue band filter paper and completing them to 50 mL with ultrapure
water.
Table 2. Procedure Used to Burn Microwave Samples
1
2
3
4
5
Temperature
(°C)
120
140
170
50
50
Pressure (Bar)
Ramp
Duration (Min)
Power (Watt)
35
35
35
35
35
5
10
10
1
1
2
5
15
1
1
90
90
90
0
0
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Migration test
A migration test (M) was performed to determine the migration probability of toxic
metals from paper based packages to food. As a sample for the migration test, specimens
having a total surface area of 100 cm2 were immersed in 100 mL of food simulant solution
(3% w/v CH3COOH) under acidic (pH 4.0) for 24 h at 40 ºC conditions (EN1186 European
Committee for Standardization 2002). An aliquot of the simulant and blank was taken by
ICP-OES, and ICP-MS was performed on the simulant and standard. All the migration
measurements were made in duplicate. For determination of migration-originated toxic
metals in paper-based packages, specimens with an area of 1 dm2 were prepared by
immersion in 3% acetic acid at 40 °C for 24 h. Toxic metal quantities of the solutions
prepared were measured in ICP-OES and ICP-MS instruments.
The standard reference material (SRM) (1575, a trace elements in pine needles,
Pinus taeda, Denver, CO, USA) prepared by NIST (National Institute of Standards and
Technology) was used to compare the analysis method accurately. Table 3 shows device
and certificate values of the ICP-OES used for toxic metal determination.
Table 3. ICP-OES and Certificate Values
Device Values
Certificate Values
Mean (mg.kg-1)
±Std
Mean (mg.kg-1)
±Std
Pb
0.22
0.048
0.167
0.015
Hg
0.003259
0,008
0.003
0.008
Cd
0.213
0.0241
0.233
0.004
Ni
1.445
0.0585
1.47
0.1
Zn
36.0
0.217
38
2
Cu
2.672
0.0548
2.80
0.2
Al
551.7
3.34
580.0
30
Cr
0.398
0.013
0.3-0.5
Table 4 shows limit values of solutions studied in the ICP-OES. The nitric acid +
H2O2 and acetic acid solutions were used to prepare the samples as the solutions. The
reagents acetic acid, HNO3, and H2O2 were solutions obtained from Merck.
Table 4. Solutions limit values for LOD (mg.kg-1)
Analyte
Pb
Hg
Cd
Zn
Cr
Ni
Cu
Al
Linear
regression
coefficients
0.9995
0.9999
0.9996
0.9999
0.9995
0.9995
0.9995
0.9999
CH3COOH
3% (w/v)
HNO3+H2O2
0.02
0.00020.0053
0.2458
0.0066
0.0088
0.0262
0.2236
0.01
0,005
0,0043
0.0373
0.0063
0.0069
0.0059
0.2503
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Table 5. Operating Conditions of ICP-OES and ICP-MS
ICP OES conventional
nebulization
Radio frequency
Forward power
Plasma gas flow rate
Auxiliary gas flow rate
Nebulizer pressure
Carrier gas flow rate
ICP MS for Hg
Nebulizer type
Spray chambre
Concentric glass A
cyclonic
Replicate read time
15 s
Number of replicates
Torch type
3
Quartz torch with a 2.0 mm
I.D. alumina injector tube
1.5 L min-1
---------------------Pb: 220.353 nm, Cd: 228.802
nm, Ni: 231.604 nm,
Al:396.153 nm, Zn: 206.200
nm, Cu: 327.393 nm, Cr:
267.716 nm
Sample flow rate
NaBH4 and HCl flow rate
NaBH4 concentration
HCl concentration
Analytical lines conventional
nebulization
40 MHz
1350 W
15.0 L min-1
0.2 L min-1
120 kPa
--------
27 MHz
1400 W
0,80 L min-1
Cool:13.0 L min-1
Nebulizer Carrier gas:0.68 L
min-1
Nebulizer:Concentric glass
Spray-Chamber:Cyclonic-----15 s
4
Quartz Torch with 0.2 mm I.D.
alumina injector tube
1.5 mL min-1
Extraction:202 V
0.3 % w/v
6 mol L-1
Hg: 253.7 nm
Stock standard solutions
All standard metal solutions were supplied in packages of 100 mL with 1000 ppm
concentration in ICP purity quality by the company HG Labs. Standard metal solutions
prepared for calibration were prepared by using 10, 10, and 1 ppm mixed standard solutions
that had been prepared in advance. Standard metal solutions prepared in five different
concentrations (0.005 to 10 mg.kg-1) for the calibration of the ICP-OES/MS device in
mg.kg-1.
Statistical Analysis
Microsoft Office (Excel-2003) was used for analysis and drawing charts. SPSS
Statistics for Window Version 17.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) was used for the
statistical analyses.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Results of grammage, ash determination, and optical property for charactarization
of packaging samples are given in Table 6.
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Table 6. Characteristics of the Packaging
Samples
Gram.
(gm-2)
Ash
(%)
L*
a*
b*
W
T
F
R457
R457 F Yellowness
Paper Packaging
1
57
29.6
87.44
-2.75
9.29
30.33
-0.66 6.78
60.7
1.42
15.9
2
57
29.6
86.58
2.68
1.67
60.82
0.16
10.42
67.7
2.4
5.9
3
196.27
4.37
77.94
0.4
-2.19
83.5
0.25
1.14
59.3
0.1
1.1
4
58.5
28
85.1
-0.47
0.58
63.5
0.51
0.13
65.9
0.02
0.8
5
58.5
28
68.24
19.49
17.6
11.37
0.08
1.1
35.6
0.3
45.2
6
46.8
1.13
63.49
6.62
17.32
12.61
0.06
-0.48
25.5
-0.01
51.0
7
142.5
9.7
69.85
6.58
5.09
46.1
14.38
42.4
2.96
20.6
Average
88.1
±57.8
18.6
±13.0
77.0
±9.8
4.7
±7.4
7.1
±8.0
44.1
±27.3
0.04
0.07
±0.3
6
4.78
±4.8
51.0
±16
1.0
±1.2
20.1
±20.6
Paperboard Packaging
8
620
12.34
82.91
1.97
1.42
58.53
0
15.09
64.36
3.73
17.38
9
285.7
10.47
70.69
3,19
18.24
16.43
0
1.42
36.96
0.07
46.55
10
322.6
9.58
55.02
0.84
-8.73
51.85
0
3.08
36.1
0.2
7.29
11
426
12.14
63.31
8.28
-0.2
49.44
9.22
5.28
37.38
-0.03
47.79
37.61
68.5
±10.3
12
587
21.97 70.4
5.24
13.54
448.3±15
68.5±1 3.9±2. 4.9±1
Average
13.3±5
1.2
0.3
9
0.9
Corrugated Board Packaging
13.57 -0.31 7.12
34.53
38±21 1.8± 6.4±5. 41.9±
.3
4.2
3
12.6
1.11
13
288.71
11.29
64.29
3.92
13.09
14.43
0.02
4.87
28.17
0.83
38.29
14
320.9
10.88
59.31
44.77
19.54
0
0
14
16.65
0.1
58.2
15
327
10.7
58.62
7.02
20.1
0
0
1.12
15.97
0.07
58.37
16
399.2
10.88
58.29
22.59
16.11
42.85
0
27.28
28.07
0.75
54.55
17
413
10.85
41.91
3.98
9.65
30.64
0
2.88
9.71
0.11
38.28
18
375.1
9.65
64.56
0.66
3.01
26.09
35.58
0.38
18.39
22.4±
9.7
0.37±
0.34
31.3
±18.1
Average
354±49.1
10.7±0. 57.8±8 13.8±
6
.3
17
13.6±
6.5
0.33 2.27
19±17 0.05. 8.7±1
8±0. 0.2
.3
14
1±1.6
Gram:Grammage
Characteristics of the Packaging
Grammage values
Grammage values of paperboard and corrugated board package samples distributed
homogeneously and closely to each other. Distribution of paperdboard packaging varied
with different grammage values heterogeneously (Table 6).
Content of ash
It has been found that there is less than 1.15% ash in unprinted pulp, about 1.49%
in inkless and printed pulp, and higher than 16.5% in paper with mineral or other chemical
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additives (İmamoğlu 2001). Ash content in paper packaging ranged from 1.13% and 29.6%.
Ash content in paperboard packaging was between 9.58% and 21.97% (Table 6). It was
observed that the ash content of paper packaging was higher than of paperboard packaging,
which was likely due to filling and surface processes. Ash content of corrugated board
packaging was between 9.65% and 11.29%, which was lower than the ash content of low
grammage paper packaging. The change between 1.13% and 29.6% of all packages reflects
that the paper packages are within the ash range.
Optical Characteristics
The optical properties used in the characterization of paper-based packaging
samples were measured according to C/2º (interior) light source.
C/2º L*, a* and b* values in packaging
In all packaging, L* values indicated a mostly white color and distribution. It was
found that paperboard packages ranked higher than the paperboard and corrugated board
packagings, with the highest L* values with the minimum and maximum level and bright
white colors. Paperboard packaging ranked as the second and corrugated board packaging
ranked as the third. The dyeing process was applied to surface-treated paperboard and
paperboard packaging and to the corrugated board packaging which were not surfacetreated. It was found with CIE a* values that green tones were mostly dominant in
paperboard and corrugated board packaging and red tones were seen in a very small portion
whereas red tones were all dominant in paperboard packaging.
The b* values in the all packaging revealed that generally yellowish tones were
observed and a few blue tones also were apparent. It can be said that the color distribution
of paper packaging was different than both paperboard and corrugated board packaging.
The C/2º CIE W, T: CIE W and T values describe fluorescent whitening components. CIE
W and T values showed that white and green tones were dominant in paperboard packaging
while white and red tones were dominant in cardboard and corrugated board packaging
(Table 6).
F and R457 and R457 F brightness values in packaging: The fluoresent (F) colors
were highest in paper packaging, second row in corrugated board, and the last row in
cardboard packaging. It has been determined that R457 brightness values have significantly
higher than R457 F brightness values. Paper packaging having a low yellowness value
showed a heterogeneous distribution, whereas packaging with a high yellowness value had
a homogeneous distribution.
Toxic Metals in Packaging
Paper, paperboard, and corrugated board packaging are used in several areas; they
are present in a very large portion of food packaging. In legislation related to food
packaging that is in direct contact with food, production of food packaging using primary
fibers is considered. On the other hand, in recycled paper-paperboards, the content of
recycled fibers has reached 80% (Conti and Botrè 1997). In recycled paper and paperboard
packaging applications for packages that are indirect contact with the food, contaminations
and impurities, which are absorbed by the structural components of recycled materials and
manifested later on the food, are determined to a large extent in order to increase the safety
and raise awareness of consumers (Triantafyllou et al. 2007).
According to an EU directive (EC 94/62 2012), virgin and recycled paper or
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paperboard sub-products used in packaging have limits regarding toxic metals, including
Pb, Cd, Hg, and Cr due to color and ink residues from waste. Specifically, the directive
states that the amount of these metals should not exceed 100 mg per 1 kg of packaging
material. The migration of packaging structural components into food should not exceed
100 ppm in grammage over the course of five years. Sources of toxic metals in paper,
paperboard and corrugated board packaging include (EC 94/62 2012):
Toxic metals, in general, arise from chemical substances and additives used in the
production process, and also from corrosion of machines and equipment (Eroğlu
2004).
Paper packaging and tatto uses a wide range of colors. It commonly includes
contaminants such as toxic metals. Certain greens contain Pb, Cr, and soluble Cu
metal. Reds may contain Pb and Cd, yellows contain Cd and Zn, and blues contain
Co and Cu. Whites contain Cd, Pb and Zn, while blacks contain Cd and Pb ( EPA
2009; Ministry of Health 2013).
Fluorescent whitening agents, solutions- based, are widely used in office paper
products and packaging products.
Table 7. Toxic Metals from Structural Sources in Packaging (mg.kg-1)
Sample
Pb
Cd
Zn
Ni
Cu
Cr
Al
9.13
Hg
n.d
1
0.06
7.62
1.97
17.31
2.75
11.47
2
9.13
n.d
0.06
7.62
1.97
17.31
2.75
11.47
3
1.46
0.39
0.04
3.06
1.37
2.80
0.51
34.77
4
12.94
0.51
0.03
10.11
1.03
0.52
1.48
3,632
5
4.50
0.09
0.12
4.03
1.42
3.62
1.69
1,327
6
1.39
0.86
0.18
5.89
1.14
0.62
0.91
276.80
7
1.46
1.82
0.04
9.66
3.28
13.71
2.44
5,431
8
2.51
0.01
0.02
3.44
1.21
0.92
2.02
2,670
9
1.45
0.35
0.02
1.38
1.21
49.71
0.93
1,546
10
1.99
0.56
0.06
1.36
0.92
24.89
1.09
1,394
11
3.83
0.34
0.02
15.63
2.11
31.24
1.80
3,683
12
11.06
0.99
0.09
17.33
2.50
32.13
2.74
5,642
13
12.77
n.d
0.16
40.94
3.28
0.00
6.14
2,466
14
6.61
1.20
0.13
37.75
4.73
30.33
4.55
3,523
15
7.97
2.45
0.13
61.30
4.38
27.14
6.16
3,295
16
1.69
0.87
0.07
13.98
2.45
7.57
1.38
1,268
17
3.90
3.80
0.09
21.81
4.19
17.52
2.88
3,500
18
4.25
2.13
0.09
22.46
4.93
166.60
3.60
3,909
Furthermore, the US has enacted legislation and regulations that banned the sale or
distribution of packaging sub-material containing cadmium, lead, mercury, or hexavalent
chromium. According to The Toxics in Packaging Clearinghouse (TPCH), the total
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concentration of the metals in the product shall not exceed 100 ppm in four years. As
distinct from the food legislations and regulations of other countries, most other US states
have enacted regulations that prohibit or restrict the addition of lead, cadmium, mercury, or
hexavalent chromium intentionally in ink, dye, pigment, adhesive, stabilizer and other
packaging components (EPA 2009; Ministryof Health 2013).
Toxic metal values, sourced from paper, paperboard, and corrugated board
packaging structures and migrated from packaging through the process are given in Tables
7 and 8.
Table 8. Migration of Toxic Metals in Paper Packaging (mg.kg-1)
Sample
1
Pb-M
1.05
Hg-M
n.d
Cd-M
Zn-M
Ni-M
Cu-M
Cr-M
Al-M
0.02
0.71
0.30
0.99
0.35
31.53
2
1.05
n.d
0.02
0.71
0.30
0.99
0.35
31.53
3
n.d
n.d
0.00
n.d
0.03
1.45
n.d
n.d
n.d
n.d
n.d
n.d
4
n.d
n.d
0.07
1.15
5
9.42
n.d
n.d
n.d
n.d
n.d
0.41
1,022
6
0.10
n.d
0.28
67.15
3.08
0.86
0.37
223.60
7
2.06
n.d
0.08
1.26
5.73
0.68
651.70
8
0.01
n.d
n.d
33.52
n.d
0.28
0.22
0.45
310.10
9
n.d
n.d
0.03
n.d
1.10
0.03
0.04
1,218
10
0.20
n.d
1.98
n.d
0.30
1.26
0.51
1,175
11
6.39
n.d
15.68
307.10
16.72
14.01
4.28
173
12
2.25
n.d
0.18
n.d
n.d
3.83
n.d
542.40
n.d
0.94
n.d
0.51
13
31.61
n.d
n.d
935.70
14
1.05
n.d
0.16
39.45
3.08
5.94
1.52
966.90
4.79
n.d
0.53
82.62
2.75
5.89
3.71
1,046
7.96
n.d
1.89
59.57
3.39
4.39
1.80
932.10
5.28
n.d
0.72
30.87
1.47
1.17
0.51
996.40
18
1.05
n.d.: None detected
n.d
0.38
25.62
4.18
1.24
0.77
813.70
15
16
17
Pb Concentration in Packaging
Structural Pb concentration in packaging
In paper packaging the Pb concentration was between 1.39 and 12.9 mg.kg-1 (Table
7). Wrapping papers were the most remarkable, with high values in paper packaging with
very different Pb distributions. In wrapping papers, L* a*, b*, and CIE W and CIE T color
values were high, and it was thought that pigments and paint components used in coating
and similar coloring processes to obtain these color values are the reason of high Pb heavy
metal values (Zalewski 1994; Kim et al. 2008). The high content of ash, despite lower
grammage in paper packaging, supports this explanation (Table 6). In paperboard
packaging the Pb concentration was between 1.45 and 11.1 mg.kg-1. Corrugated board
packaging, between 1.69 and 12.77 mg.kg-1 had high Pb concentrations (Table 7). Seven
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out of 18 packaging values were below the specified limits (3 mg.kg-1; Council of Europe
2002; The European paper and board food packaging chain 2012).
Some of the cardboard packaging samples, with the dominant red color which their
high L* and a* values showed, can be said to be the source of Pb toxic metal. In addition,
the colors W (white), T (red), and Y (yellow) values showed in corrugated board packaging
can be source of Pb in high level (Table 6).
When examining the distribution of Pb amounts of all packaging within each group
of packaging, it was observed that values of paperboard and corrugated board packaging
were distributed homogenously and in close intervals for both groups, whereas paper
samples demonstrated a very heterogeneous distribution.
According to Pearson correlation analysis, there was a strong positive linear
correlation between the Pb concentration of the packaging and the ash variability (p <0.01).
The importance of ash content was supported by L*, a*, b*, CIE W values (p < 0.05), and
also by R457 brightness and yellowness values (p < 0.01)
It was found that average Pb amounts in packaging were substantially lower than
the related limit value specified in the Turkish Food Codex (20 mg.kg-1 for the egg viols).
They were also found to be substantially lower than values specified in some other research
(0.28 to 0.99 g. g-1) (Skrzydlewska et al.2003)
Pb concentration sourced from contact of packaging with food
The amount of Pb ranged from n.d. (none detective) to 9.42 mg.kg-1 in paper
packaging, n.d to 6.39 mg.kg-1 in paperboard packaging, and n.d. to 7.95 mg.kg-1 in
corrugated board packaging (Table 7). According to Conti and Botrè (1997), Pb limit values
(0.01 mg.kg-1), for eight samples in food migration did not exceed from a total of 18
samples, five samples of paper packages, two samples of paperboard packaging, and an
sample of corrugated board packages.
According to the Pearson correlation analysis, Pb migration concentration of the
packaging was found to have a positive linear correlation with strongly yellowness variable
(p <0.01) and with moderate a* variable (p <0.05).
It can be said that the paper packaging that did not involve a coating process but
included low-weight primary fiber did not exceed the Pb limit values and that the secondary
fiber-containing packages and color residues of the printing inks are toxic metal sources
(Table 1).
It was determined that the Pb concentration was similar to the literature studies
conducted (Castle et al. 1997; Conti et al. 2007; Duran et al. 2013). In the studies conducted
on migration of the packaging, Tiggelman (2012) stated the necessity for a test of humid
and fatty food in direct contact with food packages against ink contamination. Conti et al.
(1996) also reported that the lack good quality waste can result in 50% of the recycled fibercontaining packagins produced from different waste-based paper sources exceeding limit
values in Pb migration (with 7 of the 14 samples).
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Joint Expert Committee for
Food Additivies (JECFA),the provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) of Pb is 0.025
mg per unit (kg)body weight (Conti 1997).
Hg Concentration in Packaging
Structural Hg concentration in packaging
The amount of Hg ranged from n.d. to 1.82 mg.kg-1 in paper packaging, 0.01 to 0.99
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mg.kg-1 in paperboard packaging, and n.d. to 3.8 mg.kg-1 in corrugated board packaging.
The high Hg levels in corrugated board packaging were thought to be due to the use of Hg
compounds in order to increase the surface energy of the paper (Scott 1996; Table 1).
Among all packaging, paperboard packaging demonstrated lower amounts of Hg, and that
the higher amounts belonged to corrugated board, with a value of 3.80 mg.kg-1 (Tables 1
and 6). A Pearson correlation analysis, among the Hg concentration of the packaging and
the L* and R457 brightness variables, showed a strong negative linear correlation (p <0.01).
The highest amount of Hg permitted in paper/paperboard structure, for paper and
paperboard materials and products that are in direct contact with food, is 0.3 mg.kg-1 (The
European paper and board food packaging chain 2012). It was found that Hg levels in the
structural content of paperboard and corrugated board packaging mostly exceeded this limit
value, whereas only five out of 18 samples among packaging were below this limit value.
In this respect, the Hg contents of the paper, paperboard, and corrugated paperboard
packaging usually exceeded the limit values for this structural component: only in three
samples of paper packaging and two samples of paperboard and one sample of corrugated
paperboard, did the Hg contents remain below the limit value (Tables 1 and 6).
Migration Hg values via contact of packaging with food
Although the limit value for structural Hg content determined by international food
legislation was exceeded in some samples, no Hg amounts due to migration via direct
contact with the food was determined in any of the paper, paperboard, and corrugated board
samples (Table 7).
Cd Concentration in Packaging
Structural Cd concentration in packaging
The colors red and yellow, which are commonly used among the bright colors used
in fine arts, can be obtained using Cd. The demand for these colors is also very high in print
inks, but there are also high quality alternative pigments (Zalewski 1994).
The amount of Cd ranged from 0.03 to 0.18 mg.kg-1 in paper packaging, 0.02 to
0.09 mg.kg-1 in paperboard packaging, and 0.07 to 0.16 mg.kg-1 in corrugated board
packaging.
Cd concentration was found to have positive linear correlation with optical
characteristics. The correlation was strong with b* (p <0.01) and a moderate (p <0.05) was
obtained relative to yellowness. In addition, decrease in Cd concentration was found to have
a strong correlation with high values with L*, CIE W, R457 brightness variables.
It was found that values did not exceed the Cd limit value (0.5 mg.kg-1) with respect
to The European paper and board food packaging chain 2012. This may be related to the
sources that are used in paperboards for red, a*, and Y color (Table 6).
In paperboards, the high C/2º CIE T values for some paperboard support this view
(Zalewski 1994) (Table 6). This difference was attributed to the wide range of quality of
paints and pigments. The sample values were below the values obtained in other literature
surveys (Conti 1997; Skrzydlewska et al. 2003; Duran et al. 2013).
Migration Cd values via contact of packaging with food
Results of migration tests for the 18 samples of paper, paperboard, and corrugated
board food packages ranged from n.d. to 0.28 mg.kg-1, n.d. to 15.68 mg.kg-1, and n.d. to
1.89 mg.kg-1, respectively. Also, values of Cd in all packages ranged from 0.02 to 0.18
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mg.kg-1.
Levels did not exceed the migration Cd limit value (Conti and Botrè 1997; 0.005)
in paper packaging, except for in two samples (Table 7). It was observed that levels did not
exceed the migration Cd limit value determined by European Commission (2015), with the
exceptions of one sample within paperboard groups and two samples within corrugated
board group (Table 7).
In all packaging, the amount of migration of Cd was measured to be between n.d
and 15.68 mg.kg-1. It was observed that paper and corrugated board packaging were
distributed homogeneously within close intervals, whereas paperboard packaging displayed
a heterogeneous distribution. The amounts exceeded the limit values by European
Commission in all but two samples (Table 6). According to CoE (1992), in the amounts of
food contact-originated migration of packages, eight samples among all packages had been
observed to have exceeded the limit value (Castle et al. 1997; European Commission 94/62
2012). Although the amount of Cd from the structured origin of the packagings does not
exceed the limit values, most of the paperboard and corrugated board packaging originating
from migration had been found to have exceeded the limit values. Based on Pearson
correlation analysis, the Cd migration variable had a very strong positive linear correlation
with CIE T (p <0.01).
Although structural Cd amounts of packaging did not exceed the limit values, most
of the migration-related paper packaging values were very low. It can be argued that this
might depend on the low grammages and very low or lack of recycle fiber content. For
paperboard and corrugated paperboards, on the other hand, the high values may have been
caused by dissolution during acetic acid extraction for migration, given the increase in
grammage and recycled fiber content, as well as the low quality colorants used (Table 7).
Zn Concentration in Packaging
Structural Zn concentration in packaging
Paper occasionally is filled with zinc oxide or zinc sulphate compounds, which are
used to increase opacity and for the production of copy and packaging papers (Erkan and
Malayoğlu 2001). Zn is also used in fine arts and can be increased when white color
pigments are employed to obtain good light tones of other colors, and to apply metallic
colors (Zalewski 1994).
The high L* and W value supported the relationship with Zn (Table 6). The Zn
values of paper packaging were 3.06 to 10.11 mg.kg-1, for paperboard packaging they were
1.36 to 7.33 mg.kg-1, and corrugated board packaging had 13.98 to 61.30 mg.kg-1 (Table
7). According to EPA 2012 legislation, Zn amounts of paper-based food packagings did not
exceed max limit value (50 mg.kg-1) except for one of corrugated board specimens.
According to Pearson correlation analysis, the Zn content from packaging had a very strong
negative linear correlation with CIE W (p <0.05) and with R457 brightness the correlation
was strong (p <0.01).
Migration Zn values via contact of packaging with food
In paper, paperboard and corrugated packaging, Zn migration values ranged from
n.d. to 67.15 mg.kg-1, n.d. to 307.10 mg.kg-1, and n.d. to 82.62 mg.kg-1, respectively (Table
7). It was observed that values from all packages demonstrated a homogeneous distribution
ranging between n.d. and 307.1 mg.kg-1 (Table 7). According to Pearson correlation
analysis, the concentration of Zn migration had a very strong positive linear correlated with
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CIE T (p <0.01). Zn amounts from packaging were substantially higher than the amounts
sourced from direct contact with food. This was similar to literature findings (Castle et al.
1997).
Ni Concentration in Packaging
Structural Ni concentration in packaging
The results for Ni in paper, paperboard, and corrugated board packaging ranged
from 1.03 to 3.28 mg.kg-1, 0.92 to 2.50 mg.kg-1, and 2.45 to 4.93 mg.kg-1, respectively.
(Table 6). According to Pearson correlation analysis, Ni content values were found to have
a moderate negative correlation with L*, CIE W and R457 brigthness (p <0.05).
Migration Ni values via contact of packaging with food
The results of Ni for paper, paperboard and corrugated board packaging were n.d.3.08 mg.kg-1, 0.28-16.72 mg.kg-1, and n.d.-4.18 mg.kg-1, respectively (Table 7). Pearson
correlation analysis showed that Ni migration values had a very strong positive linear
correlation (p <0.01) with CIE T.
Increased Ni levels were attributed to the green pigments and inks included in waste
paper sources when recycled paper production is as raw material, and also to the use of
green color components in colorizations of recycled new paper products (Mertoğlu-Elmas,
2017 and Table 6). As the daily intake limit of Ni, according to FAO/WHO (1994), is 100300µg, the Ni levels in packaging samples did not represent a source of health risk. It was
found that these values were below the values obtained in some published studies (Castle
et al. 1997; Conti 1997; Duran et al. 2013).
Cu Concentrations in Packaging
Structural Cu metal concentrations in packaging
The results of Cu for paper, paperboard, and corrugated board packaging were 0.52
to 17.31 mg.kg-1, 0.92 to 49.71 mg.kg-1, and n.d. to 166.6 mg.kg-1, respectively (Table 6).
Migration Cu values via contact of packaging with food
Data obtained from migration tests for paper, paperboard, and corrugated board food
packaging ranged from n. d. to 5.73 mg.kg-1, 0.03 to 14.01 mg.kg-1, and n. d. to 5.94 mg.kg1
, respectively (Table 7). Cu metal was mostly observed in blue color (Tables 6; MertogluElmas 2017). According to Pearson correlation analysis, Cu migration was found to have a
strong positive correlation with CIE T (p <0.01).
According to EPA guidelines, the amount of Cu paper based packaging did not
exceed (25 mg.kg-1). Also, for an adult, the recommended maximum daily amount of Cu
intake is 3 mg (FAO/WHO, 1999). The migration of Cu metal from packaging did not create
a health risk by the FAO/WHO (1999) (Conti 2007; Duran et al. 2013). Also, structural Cu
levels in packaging were mostly below the limit values, except corrugated board sample
(166 mg.kg-1) which was related to the dense use of blue colors.
Cr Concentrations in Packaging
Structural Cr metal concentrations in packaging
The results of Cr for paper, paperboard, and corrugated board packaging were 0.51
to 2.75 mg.kg-1, 0.93 to 2.74 mg.kg-1, and 1.38 to 6.16 mg.kg-1, respectively (Table 6).
These amounts were below the values obtained by Skrzydlewska et al. (2003) (0.25 to 0.64
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mg.kg−1). Pearson correlation analysis showed Cr content values were to have a moderate
negative correlation with CIE W (p <0.05).
Migration Cr values via contact of packaging with food
Data from migration tests for paper, paperboard and corrugated board food
packaging range from 0.03 to 0.68 mg.kg-1, 0.04 to 4.28 mg.kg-1, and n.d to 3.71 mg.kg-1,
respectively (Table 7).
The daily intake of Cr ranged between 50 and 200 mg (WHO 1996; Bratakos and
Lazos 2002). The values of structural Cr and Cr from migration were below the limit values
defined by EC (3.05 µg.dm-2) (Duran et al. 2013; Resolution AP, Council of Europe 2015).
Based on Pearson correlation analysis, Cr migration was strongly and linearly correlated
with CIE T (p <0.01) and with the yellowness variable in the moderate level (p <0.05).
Al Concentrations in Packaging
Structural Al metal concentrations in packaging
Aluminum in packaging arises from aluminium sulphate, aluminium chloride
hydroxide, aluminium formiate, aluminium nitrate and sodium aluminium components
used as precipitators, stabilizers, and paper production chemicals that are used for
improving all product and surface characteristics of paper and paperboard BfR (2017).
According to Pearson correlation analysis, Al content values were positively and linearly
correlated with ash in the strong level (p <0.01) and with L* in moderate level (p <0.05) .
Structural Al metal concentrations in packaging
The results of Al analysis in paper, paperboard, and corrugated board packaging,
were 34.8 to 11,470 mg.kg-1, 1.394 to 5,642 mg.kg-1, and 1.268 to 3,909 mg.kg-1,
respectively(Table 8). Pearson correlation analysis showed the Al content to have a strongly
positive correlation with ash (p <0.05), and it was moderately correlated with L*, R457
brightness and R457 F fluorescent brightness (p <0.05) in the positive direction.
Migration Al values via contact of packaging with food
Data from migration tests for paper, paperboard, and corrugated board food
packaging ranged from 1.15 to 1,022 mg.kg-1, 1.73 to 1,218 mg.kg-1, and 813.7 to 1,046
mg.kg-1, respectively (Table 9). Pearson correlation analysis of Al migration revealed a
negative linear correlation with L* strong (p<0,01), CIE Wmoderate (p<0,05) and R457
brightness strong (p <0.01). In addition, it was found to have a moderate positive linear
correlation with yellowness variable (p <0.05).
According to EN 13428 (2004) environmental management standard, wastes of
paper based packaging include toxic metals of emission, ash, or leaching which emerge as
a result of burning. Similar processes in the reduction of the concentration to the lowest
levels is reported. The hazard wastes such as emission, ash, or leak generated from known
heavy metal concentration packaging wastes of the disposal, can be reduced to the lowest
levels. Thus, it will have contributed to environmental protection management
CONCLUSIONS
1. In virgin and unbleached paper packaging, Pb amounts were below food legislation
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limit values; whereas in white coated bleached kraft inner papers, recycled paperboard
and corrugated board packagings, Pb amounts exceeded limit values.
2. Despite the fact that, in the majority of packages, structural Hg amounts were above
limit values, Hg was not found in the migration from packaging.
3. Though the amount of Cd in packaging structure did not exceed limit values, most of
the migration-related paper packaging values exceeded the limit values. This may
have been caused by dissolution of low quality colorants during acetic acid extraction
for migration.
4. It can be said that structural Zn amounts of packaging were substantially higher than
the amounts sourced from migration.
5. In recycled corrugated packaging, green inks and paints have become a source of
increasing Ni.
6. In paperboard and corrugated board packaging, the high Cu content is due to high
density blue color.
7. Cr levels resulting from structural of corrugated board packaging were high than paper
and paperboard packaging due to recycled
8. The amount of Al resulting from the migration of packagins are 10 times lower than
the structural ones.
9. Color pigments and dyes have turquoise, yellow and white toxic metal sources, mainly
red color in from light to dark color scale. The existence of these colors determined with
the optical characteristics of paper, paperboard, and corrugated board packaging with
respect to two different sources of light. Toxic metals can be said to dominate mainly
color pigments such as green for Ni,.white for Zn and Pb and red and blue for Cu metals.
10. Applying coloring/dyeing process with dyes dissolving in water and acidic platform to
corrugated board packaging without surface treatment can be said to result in increase
in toxic metals.
11. According to EN 13428 (2004) the hazard wastes such as emission, ash or leak
generated from known heavy metal concentration packaging wastes of the disposal, can
be reduced to lowest levels and the environmental management can be also provided
indirectly. With this study, it will be possible to control the compliance of toxic metals
in paper-based food packages with the food legislation and to minimize the leaks of
toxic metals emerging as a result of processes such as packaging waste incineration
according to EN 13428 (2004) and to prevent the deposition of these as emissions, ashes
and wastes on soil ,as an indirect contribution to environmental management.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This research work was part of a project supported by the Scientific Research
Foundation (BAP) of Istanbul University (Project number FYL-2016-21483).
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Article submitted: April 16, 2018; Peer review completed: June 9, 2018; Revised version
receive and accepted: August 1, 2018; Published: August 21, 2018.
DOI: 10.15376/biores.13.4.7560-7580
Mertoğlu-Elmas & Çınar (2018). “Metals in packages,”
BioResources 13(4), 7560-7580.
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