Scientific Opinion on the safety evaluation of the active substance, open-cell expanded polystyrene manufactured with talc and alkyl(C8-C22) sulphonic acid (salts)for use in active food contact materials

This scientific opinion of EFSA deals with the risk assessment of the open-cell expanded polystyrene, manufactured with talc, CAS No 14807-96-6, FCM substance No 615, and alkyl(C8-C22) sulphonic acid (salts) FCM substance No 16. Migration test results for trays made of open-cell EPS into water and 3% acetic acid for 10 days at 40 °C have been provided and demonstrated the compliance with the overall migration limit and the SML for alkyl(C8-C22) sulphonic acid (salts) as established by Commission Regulation (EU) No 10/2011. All substances used for the manufacture of the open-cell EPS have already been evaluated and are used in compliance with Commission Regulation (EU) No 10/2011. Therefore further toxicological data are not needed.

Provided that the requirements of the Commission Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 are respected, the CEF Panel concluded that there is no safety concern for the consumer when used as liquid absorber in contact with fresh meat, poultry and fish.