Migration of chloropropanols 3-MCPD and 1,3-DCP from paper straws into food simulants in comparison with cold water extraction

Chloropropanols such as 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol (1,3-DCP) and 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) can be present in wet-resistant paper food contact articles and migrate into aqueous food. Due to their potential carcinogenicity, residual levels in food are a target of consumer protection. Assessment of compliance of paper food contact articles regarding chloropropanols is commonly done using cold water extraction according to EN 645. However, this gives limited information on actual consumer exposure. To support risk assessment, migration of chloropropanols from paper straws into food simulants was compared to cold water extraction. Established methods using silylation with MSTFA and GC-MS/MS were adapted for food simulants B and D1. While absolute concentrations were higher in cold water extracts, released amounts were similar when accounting for sample weight and simulant volume. For uncoated paper under foreseeable use conditions, cold water extraction results can estimate exposure. Paper straws compliant with BfR recommendation XXXVI limits do not considerably contribute to total 3-MCPD intake. Thus, enforcing these limits is suitable to protect consumers from harmful chloropropanol exposure from food contact materials.