Migration of trimellitic acid from epoxy anhydride can coatings into foods A. Fankhauser-Noti and K. Grob Official Food Control Authority of the Canton of Zurich PO Box Zurich CH-8030 Switzerland Abstract: The migration of trimellitic acid and its esters from epoxy anhydride coatings was determined in simulants as well as in canned foods. The most appropriate simulant was a combination of EC simulants B and C: 2% acetic acid/10% ethanol in water. The average migration into food was 900 ėg kg−1. This far exceeds the 50 ėg kg−1 for which the safety of trimellitic acid and its anhydride is ensured and the Swiss legal limit (QM(T) of 5 mg kg−1 coating). Furthermore, much trimellitic acid migrated as (unidentified) esters, i.e. toxicological testing of free trimellitic acid is inadequate for the material that in reality migrates. Food Additives & Contaminants Volume 21, Number 7 / July 2004 711 - 718 Ann's NOTE: We looked for information on what this substance is and is used for: Trimellitic anhydride is used as an embossing agent for vinyl flooring and as a curing agent for epoxy resins. It is also used as an intermediate for the synthesis of surface coatings chemicals, adhesives, polymers, dyes printing inks, pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. According to the (European) "Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Food Additives, Flavourings, Processing Aids and Materials in Contact with Food (AFC), adopted May 26, 2004": Ref No. 25550 Trimellitic anhydride, CAS number 552-30-7, Classified in list: 3, Restriction: 5 mg/kg food, expressed as trimellitic acid. Also known as: 1,2,4 - Benzenetricarboxylic acid 1,2 - anhydride in the Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS #: DC2050000 CAS #: 552-30-7). Updated November 2003. "Note: Toxicity data have not been evaluated. Omission of a substance or notation does not imply any relief from regulatory responsibility." And from Pharmacia Diagnostics: "Exposure of the general population to Trimellitic anhydride is possible, for example, around industrial plants, through its use in food storage and protection materials, from car interior linings, and during transportation of the compound. However, the likelihood of exposure from these sources is very low. When trimellitate plasticisers are used, Trimellitic anhydride itself is not present, but rather its ester derivatives; these are stable and do not migrate. There are no reports of populations being affected in the vicinity of industrial sites." Date at bottom of page is simply 2004. Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.