NIAS
Screening and identification of non-intentionally added substances (NIAS)
The detection and identification of NIAS is a crucial activity to ensure the safety and quality of food-contact materials. A food-safe material is one that does not lead to undesired migration phenomena, i.e., it does not release potentially harmful substances into food.
The risk assessment of IAS (Intentionally Added Substances) and NIAS is required in accordance with Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 on materials and articles intended to come into contact with food.
What are NIAS?
NIAS (Non-Intentionally Added Substances) are compounds that may be present in materials intended for food contact, including packaging. Unlike intentionally added or functional additives, these substances are not deliberately introduced during the manufacturing process. They may arise from unexpected or uncontrollable chemical reactions, such as:
- Material degradation;
- Irradiation processes;
- Impurities in raw materials or additives;
- Possible contaminants introduced at any stage of the production cycle;
- Reaction by-products formed through uncontrolled interactions between components.
How to prevent migration risks?
NIAS detection begins with a detailed analysis of the production process at the origin of the food-contact material (FCM), in order to identify all substances involved that could potentially trigger unwanted reactions. Based on this preliminary study, a tailored analytical plan is developed to suit the specific characteristics of the materials used.
With over 30 years of experience and an extensive database of daily screening activities on a wide range of materials, Lifeanalytics provides comprehensive support throughout the NIAS risk assessment process. This enables our partners to manufacture and market their food-contact materials in full safety and compliance.
Our laboratories are equipped to perform screening and characterization of all types of NIAS – including volatile, semi-volatile, and non-volatile molecules – ensuring products that are safe for both consumers and the environment.
