Determination of primary aromatic amines (PAA)

Primary aromatic amine (PAA) analysis allows for the identification and quantification of potentially toxic organic compounds that can migrate from certain food contact materials. These substances can originate from printing inks, adhesives, azo dyes, or plastics whose degradation generates undesirable aromatic amines. Controlling their presence is essential to ensure regulatory compliance, protect consumer health, and ensure the safe marketing of food packaging and materials.

Industrial challenges of AAP dosing

Antimicrobial agents (APAs) are strictly regulated within the European Union, notably by Regulation (EU) No 10/2011, which sets a very low detection limit (10 µg/kg of simulated food for all APAs). Excessive migration can lead to product recalls, penalties, or major non-compliance during quality audits. Analysis is therefore an essential tool for manufacturers of packaging, printed materials, inks, adhesives, and plastics intended for food contact.

This control makes it possible to:
• detect regulatory non-conformities
• secure packaging production lines
• validate the food compatibility of printed or glued materials
• prevent risks related to degraded azo dyes
• guarantee the conformity of finished products during audits or certifications

Analytical methods: LC-MS/MS and HPLC

The determination of primary aromatic amines is generally carried out by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), in accordance with EN 13130 ​​or other equivalent standards. This technique allows for very high sensitivity and specific identification, even in complex matrices where several contaminants may coexist.

HPLC or UV spectroscopy can be used as a complement or for preliminary screenings, but LC-MS/MS remains the regulatory reference due to its accuracy and selectivity.

The analysis allows for the identification of:
• specific AAPs (aniline, o-toluidine, benzidine, etc.)
• amines resulting from the degradation of azo dyes
• contaminants potentially present in inks or adhesives
• the final concentration after migration through food simulants

Matrices analyzed and industrial applications

The dosage of AAP applies to materials and objects in contact with food: plastic films, laminates, multilayers, printed papers and cardboards, industrial glues, printing inks, varnishes, polyamide objects, recycled materials, flexible or rigid packaging.

Applications include:
• quality control of incoming materials
• validation of packaging before marketing
• internal audits and regulatory compliance
• investigations in case of migration or abnormal odor
• qualification of material and ink suppliers

YesWeLab Support

YesWeLab collaborates with laboratories specializing in migration analysis and testing of food contact materials. The majority are ISO 17025 and COFRAC certified or accredited, ensuring reliable results that comply with European regulatory requirements. Our scientific team helps you define test conditions (simulant type, temperature, duration), select appropriate analytical methods, and interpret results to ensure the safety of your products before they are placed on the market.

Thanks to our digital platform, you can centralize your requests, track the progress of your analyses, and retrieve your reports quickly and easily. Since 2020, YesWeLab has been supporting packaging manufacturers, printers, converters, and distributors in controlling chemical contaminants such as AAPs.

Other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue

• Global and specific migration
• Analysis of NIAS (Non-Intentionally Added Substances)
• Control of regulated monomers and additives