Application of radiometric method for element migration determination from plastic packaging to food

In the present study, a radiometric method was applied for element migration determination from food plastic packaging to simulating solutions and foodstuffs. This method consisted of irradiating plastics with neutrons, its exposure for migration and radioactivity measurements in the food or food-simulating solutions. The migration was studied for water, juice, soft drinks, acidic fatty food and dairy product plastic packages. The results indicated Co, Cr and Sb migration to the simulating solutions and food. However, the contamination of these elements in food from packaging material was lower than the maximum limit values established by the Brazilian Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) legislation.