Headspace Gas Chromatography for the Analysis of Vinyl Chloride and Other Monomers in Plastic Packaging and in Foods

e Analysis of Vinyl Chloride and Other Monomers in Plastie Packaging and in Foods” J. GtLerRr AND M. J. Smpsrno Ministry ofAgriculture, Fisheries and Food, Food Science Division, Halditt House, Queen Street, Norwich NR2 4SX A generalised review is presented covering the types ofplastics used for various food packaging applications in the United Kingdom, and the typical levels of residual monomers (vinyl chloride, acrylonitrile, vinylidene chloride and styrene) to be found in the packaging and in the foods themselves. The analy- tical method ofchoice for monomers is undoubtedly headspace gas chromato- graphy and for this techrique, both the practical experimental difficulties and likely sources of eror are discussed, with pa icular reference to the European Economic Community (EEC) method of analysis for Vinyl Chloride in PVC and in Foods. Examples to illustrate the sensitivity, specificity and precision of headspace monomer analysis have been drawn both from the authors’ own experiences and from recent participation in UK and EEC collaborative trials. The contamination of foods and beverages by trace amounts of materials which have migrated from plastics used in their packaging is