Paper lunch box China GB4806 testing process
Date:2025-08-07 14:06:34 Classification
:【question】 Visits:
According to China's "National Food Safety Standard - Paper and Paperboard Materials and Articles for Food Contact" (GB 4806.8-2022), the GB4806 testing process and key points for paper lunch boxes are as follows:
I. Pre-Testing Preparation
1. Confirm the Testing Standard
- Paper lunch boxes must comply with GB 4806.8-2022 (Paper and Paperboard Materials and Articles for Food Contact).
- GB 4806.1-2016 (General Safety Requirements) should also be followed as the foundational standard.
2. Prepare Samples and Materials
- Sample Requirements: Provide unused, uncontaminated finished paper lunch boxes (including complete packaging), typically 6-12 pieces.
- Product Information: This includes material description (e.g., coating type), production process, operating temperature range, etc.
II. Testing Process
1. Select a Testing Agency
- Only laboratories with CMA (China Metrology Accreditation) and CNAS (China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment) accreditation are accepted.
- Recommended testing agency: Dezewei Testing.
2. Application Submission and Sample Submission
- Complete the test application form, specifying the test items (e.g., migration, heavy metals, etc.).
- Sample Submission Method: Mail, on-site sampling, or self-submission.
3. Laboratory Testing Items
According to GB 4806.8-2022, core items include:
- Sensory testing: Abnormal color and odor;
- Chemical migration: Dissolution of formaldehyde, fluorescent substances, and heavy metals (lead, arsenic) in simulated liquids (water/oil/acid);
- Microbiological testing: E. coli, mold, and pathogens (e.g., Salmonella);
- New item: Residual amounts of 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol and 3-chloro-1,2-propanediol (new in the 2022 edition).
4. Report Review and Issuance
- Standard Turnaround: 5-7 business days, expedited processing available (fastest 1-3 days, additional fee applies).
- The report must include the laboratory stamp, CMA/CNAS logo, and clearly state "Compliant with GB 4806.8-2022."
III. Fee and Turnaround Time Reference
- Fee Range: Approximately ¥1,000RMB
- Turnaround: Standard 5-7 days, additional processing time available for urgent requests.
IV. Compliance Report
1. Labeling Requirements
- Products must be labeled "For Food Contact Use," with applicable temperature, and material type.
2. E-commerce and Market Supervision
- The report must be uploaded to e-commerce platforms (such as Taobao and JD.com).
- Market supervision authorities may conduct spot checks, and non-compliant products may face removal from shelves or penalties (in accordance with Article 126 of the Food Safety Law).
V. Common Problems and Pitfall Avoidance Guide
- Frequent Reasons for Rejection:
① The laboratory lacks CMA/CNAS accreditation;
② Failure to test for new standard items (e.g., chloropropanol);
③ The label is missing the "Food Contact" mark.
- Material Change Handling: Retesting is required after formula or process adjustments.
> Tips:
> - Prefer a laboratory familiar with paper packaging to avoid exceeding test limits due to complex coating/ink compositions.
> - Regularly update reports (recommended annually or when materials change).