Release of non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) from food contact polycarbonate: Effect of ageing

Non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) released from polycarbonate tableware were evaluated through untargeted analysis by UHPLC-ESI-Orbitrap. Migration experiments from fifteen samples of different age were performed using ethanol 95% and isooctane as food simulants. High-resolution mass spectrometry permitted the identification of oligomers derived from polycarbonate degradation and traces of colouring agents. Data were analysed with the aim of exploring a possible correlation between type and amount of different oligomers and age of the samples. It has been found out for the first time that the pattern of polycarbonate degradation products observed in new samples was different from that of old samples. Colouring agents were found to be released in higher amount from new samples than from old ones. The work shows the high potential of the technique employed and its importance in the field of control related to safety concern.