- Packaging materials
NIAS
Analysis of NIAS in food contact materials
Identification, toxicological assessment and control of NIAS
Ensure food safety and regulatory compliance of packaging and materials.
NIAS are chemical substances present in materials and packaging that have not been intentionally added, but which may be generated during manufacturing, processing or recycling processes, or through the degradation of material components. Their presence represents one of the main current challenges in food safety and packaging, especially in a context of new materials, recycled materials and increasing regulatory requirements.
At AINIA, we help companies identify, interpret and manage NIAS through advanced analysis, toxicological risk assessment and technical-legal advice, ensuring that food contact materials are safe, compliant and suitable for their intended use.
Why is it essential to address NIAS?
Food safety
NIAS can migrate from packaging into food, creating toxicological risks if they are not properly identified and controlled. Their analysis is essential to prevent emerging risks and protect consumers.
Regulatory compliance
European legislation requires food contact materials not to transfer hazardous substances or alter the composition of the food:
- Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004
- Regulation (EU) No 10/2011
- New Declaration of Conformity (EU Reg. 2025/351), which strengthens the requirement for information on NIAS.
The identification and assessment of NIAS is key to demonstrating legal compliance to customers and authorities
Optimisation of the material and process
NIAS analysis makes it possible to determine their origin (raw materials, additives, inks, adhesives, thermal processes or recycling) and to define corrective measures in formulation and manufacturing to minimise their presence at source.
NIAS analysis
Why is it so important?
Download this infographic to understand what non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) are and why they pose a potential risk to food safety.
Our NIAS Analysis
service
At AINIA, we offer a comprehensive NIAS analysis, identification and interpretation service, adapted to the intended use of the packaging and the applicable regulatory framework.
Advanced analytical methodology
We analyse NIAS using:
- Gas chromatography (GC)
- Liquid chromatography (HPLC)
- High-resolution mass spectrometry
These techniques enable non-targeted detection, identification and semi-quantification of NIAS present in the material.
Check the scope of accreditation at: ENAC accreditations of AINIA laboratories
What does the service include?
- Detection and identification of NIAS in materials and packaging.
- Expert interpretation of results.
- Risk assessment.
- Determination of the suitability of the material for its intended use.
- Technical recommendations and corrective measures to minimise NIAS at source.
Risk assessment and regulatory support
Beyond chemical analysis, at AINIA we provide a differentiated approach:
- Toxicological assessment based on scientific and regulatory criteria.
- Exposure assessment.
- Support with the Declaration of Conformity.
Our team combines analytical expertise, knowledge of food contact materials legislation and industrial experience, enabling results to be transformed into practical and safe decisions.
Who is this service aimed at?
This service is particularly aimed at:
- Manufacturers of packaging and packaging materials
- Food companies that use complex or innovative packaging
- Converters of plastic, paper/cardboard and multilayer materials
- Companies incorporating recycled material
- Quality, R&D, regulatory affairs and packaging departments
Integration with AINIA Packaging 360
NIAS analysis forms part of the AINIA Packaging 360 approach, which enables the safety, functionality, sustainability and regulatory compliance of packaging to be addressed in an integrated way, from design to market.
Why AINIA?
- Laboratories with advanced analytical technologies
- Proven experience in food contact materials
- Integrated approach: analysis + risk + regulations
- Personalised technical support
- Applied approach to safe innovation in packaging
Would you like to know more?
Leave us your details and we will contact you to answer your questions or continue the conversation.
