EC No. 1935/2004 – everything you need to know about the authorisation procedure

The approval procedure for food contact materials regulates the testing and approval of substances and manufacturing processes. It applies to materials and articles intended to come into contact with food. Approval ensures that they are safe for human health.

Detailed explanation

In Germany, there is no general authorisation requirement for food contact materials as finished products. However, certain substances and manufacturing processes must be tested for their safety and authorised. This applies in particular to recycled plastics.

Approval is granted on the basis of Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004. It is also based on other specific regulations such as Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 for plastics. The Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) acts as the national contact point for such applications for approval.

It is important that the applications meet certain criteria in terms of form and content. These are laid down in guidelines issued by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Applications must be submitted electronically via the E-Submission Food Chain Platform (ESFC).

Admission procedure

Upon receipt, the BVL checks the applications for compliance with the formal requirements. These are then forwarded to the EFSA, which carries out a scientific assessment. Communication between the applicant and the authorities takes place exclusively via the ESFC platform. This also includes the possibility of clarifying queries and uploading additional documents.

The final decision on authorisation is taken by the European Commission, which takes into account the scientific opinion of the EFSA. If authorisation is granted, all associated conditions and restrictions must be complied with by the companies.

In the event of non-authorisation, the applicant is informed accordingly and receives a statement of reasons.

Stainless steel tanks and special containers from SCHÄFER Container Systems

As a manufacturer of stainless steel tanks and special containers, SCHÄFER Container Systems is directly affected by this approval procedure. This is because our products are also used in the food industry, among other sectors.

It goes without saying that our stainless steel IBCs meet the strict requirements of Regulation 1935/2004. This ensures that no substances harmful to health can migrate into food.