The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) updated the general conditions for plastic and cellulose-based packaging materials used in food. The update incorporated three resolutions from the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) to the Brazilian regulatory framework.
The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA), through RDC Resolution n.º 589/2021, incorporated three resolutions from the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) that revised the general conditions for plastic and cellulose-based packaging materials used in food. More specifically:
- The new RDC resolution amended Resolution n.º 105/1999 in order to incorporate MERCOSUR GMC Resolution n.º 20/2021 to the Brazilian regulation, concerning the general rules on plastic packaging and equipment used in food;
- It amended RDC Resolution n.º 56/2012 in order to incorporate MERCOSUR GMC Resolution n.º 19/2021, related to the positive list of authorized plastic substances used in food;
- The new resolution amended Resolution n.º 88/2016 in order to incorporate MERCOSUR GMC Resolution n.º 21/2021, concerning cellulose-based materials destined for packages and equipment used in food.
According to ANVISA, the revision is designed to update the regulatory framework in line with international best regulatory practices, providing new restrictions for specific materials, such as BPA (bisphenol A), in light of scientific advancements. The update is also designed to incorporate private sector petitions regarding cellulose-based materials.
The new resolution established a 12-month transition period for companies to adjust their packaging and equipment (article 16). The resolution stems from Public Consultation n.º 897/2020, reported in the 15th edition of the Regulatory Report.
