Styrene in plastic materials and articles intended to come into contact with food

Styrene, a chemical that is extensively employed in the production of plastics and polymers, is a common ingredient in consumer products, particularly in materials that come into contact with food. The extensive use of styrene requires a thorough assessment of its safety, particularly in relation to its potential migration into food products. This consideration is consistent with the European Food Safety Authority's (EFSA) objectives to guarantee consumer safety and preserve rigorous public health standards.This deep dive aims to explore the potential concerns and issues related to styrene in plastic materials and articles intended to come into contact with food, with a focus on the contributions and insights from EFSA’s partners and stakeholders. By examining pertinent research and data from January 2023 to September 2024, the review places particular emphasis on the perspectives of stakeholders, alongside regulatory advancements, and their implications for consumer safety.