The plasticizer DEHCH is included in the EU food contact plastic regulations as a new authorized substance

The European Union has officially included bis(2-ethylhexyl) cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxylate (DEHCH) in its list of authorized substances for use in food contact plastics. This amendment, introduced in Regulation (EU) 2023/1627, was published on August 11, 2023, and it modifies Annex I of Regulation (EU) No 10/2011.

DEHCH can be used as an additive in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) at concentrations up to 25% by weight. It is permitted for use in contact with foods at room temperature or below, specifically with food simulants A (10% ethanol) and B (3% acetic acid). The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) had previously assessed DEHCH and determined it poses no genotoxicity concerns, establishing a specific migration limit of 0.05 mg/kg of food.

This regulatory update reflects the EU’s commitment to ensuring the safety of materials used in food contact applications while allowing for the incorporation of new substances that meet stringent safety standards.