Migration of ɛ-caprolactam residues in packaging intended for contact with fatty foods

Residues of ɛ-caprolactam (CAP), a precursor monomer of nylon 6 used in food packaging materials, can migrate into foodstuffs. This work evaluated the migration of CAP into 95% ethanol (a fatty food simulant). A total of 8 (35%), 1 (33%), 2 (100%) and 3 (100%) packages intended for contact with bologna sausage, turkey blanquette, poultry breast, and pâté, respectively, presented specific migration levels exceed the limit established in Brazil and Europe (15 mg/kg of food). Therefore, in the interest of protecting human health, it is recommended that Brazilian government and its agencies develop measures to control and monitor food packaging materials containing nylon 6.