Stainless Steel Food Cans China GB4806 Test Application Process
Date：2025-09-10 10:10:38 Classification
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This detailed description of the GB4806 testing application process for stainless steel food cans in China, based on the latest standard (GB4806.9-2023) and industry practices, consists of five core steps:
I. Confirming Testing Requirements and Standard Applicability
1. Mandatory Scope
- All stainless steel cans that come into direct contact with food (such as storage cans and canned goods) must comply with GB4806.9-2023, "Food Contact Metal Materials and Articles."
- If non-metallic components (such as rubber seals) are included, testing must also be conducted under GB4806.11 (Rubber Standard) or GB4806.10 (Coating Standard).
2. Transition from Old to New Standards
- Starting September 6, 2024, GB4806.9-2023 will fully replace the 2016 version, and testing must be performed according to the new standard.
II. Selecting a Testing Agency and Submitting an Application
1. Qualification Requirements
- The agency must possess CMA (China Metrology Accreditation Service) and CNAS (National Accreditation Service) certification (e.g., Dezewei Testing).
2. Submitted Materials
- Product technical documentation (material description, coating structure diagram, usage scenarios);
- Application form (specify test items: migration test, component analysis, etc.).
III. Sample Preparation and Submission
1. Sample Requirements
- Quantity: At least three finished cans (including sealed samples to simulate actual use);
- Labeling: Samples must be labeled with the brand (e.g., S30408) and coating information (e.g., "chrome/nickel").
2. Simulant Selection
- Select the migration test simulant based on the type of food contained:
- Acidic foods → 4% acetic acid solution;
- Oily foods → Vegetable oil or 50% ethanol (vegetable oil is preferred under the new standard).
IV. Test Execution and Report Generation
1. Core Test Items
| Category | Test Content
| Migration Test | Lead, Cadmium, Arsenic, Nickel, and Chromium Dissolution; Total Migration (≤10 mg/dm²)
| Raw Material Composition | Analysis of Impurities (As ≤ 0.01%, Cadmium ≤ 0.01%) and Prohibited Alloys
| Sensory Testing | Evaluation of Simulated Fluid Odor and Abnormal Coloration
2. Turnaround Time and Cost
- Standard Projects: 7-10 Business Days;
- Cost: Approximately 1,000-3,000 RMB (depending on the number of projects and agency pricing).
V. Report Obtaining and Labeling
1. Report Content
- Must include the type of simulated fluid, migration limit results, and material compliance conclusions.
2. Labeling Specifications
- Mandatory Labeling:
- "For Food Contact Use";
- Stainless steel grade (e.g., 06Cr19Ni10);
- Multi-layer plating (e.g., chrome/nickel/copper).
Key Considerations
1. Compatibility of Non-Metallic Components
- Rubber components such as seals require a separate GB4806.11 test report.
2. Differences Between the Old and New Standards
- The 2023 version tightens migration limits (e.g., lead ≤ 0.01 mg/kg) and adds mercury as a banned element.
3. Market Spot Check Focus
- Regulators will focus on the completeness of label information and proof of compliance with migration limits.
Summary of the Process
A [Confirm Requirements] --> B [Select CNAS/CMA Institution]
B --> C [Prepare 3 Samples + Cans + Documentation]
C --> D [Migration/Composition/Sensory Testing]
D --> E [Obtain Report]
E --> F [Mark "Food Contact" + Brand Name"]
It is recommended to prioritize laboratories with practical experience with the new standard and plan a 15-day lead time to accommodate potential retests. The full text of the standard can be obtained through the National Health Commission announcement or testing institutions.
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