Biocides in food packaging: safety concerns and migration insights

Introduction: Context: Biocides such as BIT (1,2-Benzisothiazolin-3-one), CMIT (Chloromethylisothiazolinone), and MIT (Methylisothiazolinone) are commonly used in food packaging to preserve materials and ensure safety due to their antimicrobial properties. Problem: The potential migration of these biocides into food contact materials (FCMs) raises concerns, especially since their behavior under various conditions is not well understood. Objective: This study aims to characterize the extraction behavior of BIT, CMIT, and MIT from Kraft paper, focusing on its potential migration when used in food packaging. Results & Conclusions: The extraction of biocides from food packaging materials is influenced by the solvent type, temperature, and biocide properties (e.g., log Kow). BIT and CMIT showed higher solubility and extraction in ethanol, while MIT has a stronger affinity for water, reducing its extraction in ethanol. The complex interactions between temperature, solvent type, and the Kraft paper matrix affect biocide availability and migration patterns. Findings highlight the need for rigorous standards in food safety regarding biocide use in food packaging, emphasizing the need for further research of biocide behavior migration in various matrices.