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Recent Advances in Non-Targeted Screening of Compounds in Plastic-Based/Paper-Based Food Contact Materials
Summary
This review examines non-targeted screening methods using high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify hazardous chemical migrants from plastic and paper food contact materials (packaging). Rather than testing for specific known chemicals, these methods can detect the full range of compounds present, including novel or unexpected migrants. This approach is relevant to microplastic research because plastic packaging chemicals — including plasticizers, stabilizers, and processing aids — can leach into food and represent an indirect route of chemical exposure linked to plastic contamination.
Ensuring the safety of food contact materials has become a pressing concern in recent times. However, detecting hazardous compounds in such materials can be a complex task, and traditional screening methods may not be sufficient. Non-targeted screening technologies can provide comprehensive information on all detectable compounds, thereby supporting the identification, detection, and risk assessment of food contact materials. Nonetheless, the non-targeted screening of food contact materials remains a challenging issue. This paper presents a detailed review of non-targeted screening technologies relying on high-resolution mass spectrometry for plastic-based and paper-based food contact materials over the past five years. Methods of extracting, separating, concentrating, and enriching compounds, as well as migration experiments related to non-targeted screening, are examined in detail. Furthermore, instruments and devices of high-resolution mass spectrometry used in non-targeted screening technologies for food contact materials are discussed and summarized. The research findings aim to provide a theoretical basis and practical reference for the risk management of food contact materials and the development of relevant regulations and standards.
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