Abstract:

Paper is one of the main materials in the manufacture of packaging for contact with food. Microbes that are present in the paper or board may penetrate into the food- health hazard for the consumers. Consistent and unified regulations have not been enacted yet in the UE to prevent health hazards which may arise from infected packaging. Examination was carried out of the microbiological contamination in various paper and paperboard materials designed for uses in food packaging. The following three methods were applied in the testing: defibering-, agar flooding- and smear method. It has been proven that the defibering method yields best results in the testing of microbes’ concentration in paper and board. In some of the commercial materials tested a high level of contamination was found raising concern whether the products can be used in contact with food. No clear criteria are presently defined to qualify the material in respect of microbiological purity.