Safety of plant fiber-based food contact materials: Overview of the discovery, identification, detection and risk assessment of unknown risk substances

Abstract

Plant fiber-based food contact materials (FCMs) are considered as one of the perfect substitutes for the petroleum-based traditional plastic products. Plant fibers come from natural sources and are generally considered to be nontoxic and environmentally friendly. However, it has been reported that more migration of toxic substances may be found in the plant-based products. Therefore, this article first reviews the potential risks sources of plant fiber-based FCMs throughout their entire lifecycle. It also presents a summary of the analytical methods used to identify risk substances from the perspectives of non-targeted screening and safety assessment frameworks and compiles information regarding substances detected in non-targeted screening of plant fiber-based FCMs. In addition, rapid detection methods, including biosensors and emerging detection devices, have been described. The consumption demands and growth potential of plant fiber-based FCMs are enormous. However, based on the currently reported risks, it is necessary to improve the non-targeted screening database, to develop more comprehensive risk assessment methods and to gradually establish specific regulations and standards.