Understanding the new EFSA report
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a comprehensive review of scientific literature on the potential release of micro- and nanoplastics (MNP) from plastic food contact materials (FCM). The supporting publication, entitled “Literature review on micro- and nanoplastic release from food contact materials during their use” (EFSA Supporting Publication EN-9733, approved on 15 October 2025), examines evidence from 2015 to 2025 across a wide range of polymer types, including both virgin and recycled plastics.
The review confirms that microplastic release can occur during the use of some food contact materials, primarily as a result of physical wear such as abrasion or friction. However, EFSA highlights that the measured levels are very low and that most available studies face methodological challenges, including contamination and misidentification of particles. As a result, the authority concludes that there is currently insufficient evidence to estimate consumer exposure to micro- and nanoplastics from food contact materials.
Findings specific to polystyrene (PS) and expanded polystyrene (EPS)
Out of 101 food contact material samples analysed across 81 scientific publications, EFSA reports that polystyrene and expanded polystyrene were among the least-studied polymers, with only five cases involving these materials. No study provided evidence of significant or systematic microplastic release from PS or EPS under normal or foreseeable conditions of use.
Where PS or EPS was examined – for example in cups, trays, or food containers – the review found no confirmed identification of particles matching these polymers, nor any validated data on nanoplastic formation. EFSA further notes that some previously reported high release values were likely the result of non-representative testing conditions or confusion between additives and true polymer particles.
Analytical and regulatory observations
The report stresses that accurate identification of polymer particles requires a combination of advanced analytical techniques such as Raman and FTIR spectroscopy, supported by strict contamination control. Many earlier studies did not meet these standards, leading to uncertainty in their conclusions.
EFSA calls for the development of harmonised testing protocols and validated analytical methods under realistic use conditions. Such improvements are considered essential to generate meaningful, polymer-specific assessments of potential microplastic release.
Implications for EPS packaging
EFSA’s review provides no evidence that expanded polystyrene contributes significantly to microplastic exposure through food contact materials. This aligns with independent findings from industry and research institutes, which consistently show that EPS packaging maintains its structural integrity and safety during normal use, including under heat and pressure.
By confirming the absence of measurable or systematic microplastic release from EPS, the EFSA publication supports a more differentiated, evidence-based discussion on polymer safety in the EU. It offers a robust scientific reference for ongoing regulatory work on food contact materials, microplastics, and polymer risk assessment.
Source:
European Food Safety Authority (2025). Literature review on micro- and nanoplastic release from food contact materials during their use. EFSA Supporting Publication EN-9733.