Introduction to Ink Safety Standards :
In the field of ink printing, where creativity and precision collide, success depends not only on vibrant colors and sharp designs but also on strict ink safety standards that ensure inks are safe and compliant, including key benchmarks like MOAH and MOSH.
MOAH and MOSH:
Mineral oil is a mixture of hydrocarbons – molecules made entirely of carbon and hydrogen with cyclic, linear, or branched structures and varying chain lengths – and under ink safety standards, its composition is carefully evaluated, as molecular mass, viscosity, and potential risk depend on the type and proportion of these hydrocarbons.
The French government ratified the AGEC law in early 2022. The Ministry of Ecological Transition proposed the following degree “Prohibition of the use of mineral oils in packaging and printed matter”.
This French law, aligned with ink safety standards, limits the chemicals that can be used in mineral oils for printing and packaging intended for public consumption (such as brochures and leaflets), particularly restricting substances that pose health risks or hinder recycling, and it prohibits the use of specific mineral oils and their derivatives.
- Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH) containing 1 to 7 aromatic rings.
- Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons (MOSH) containing 16 to 35 carbon atoms.
MOAH (Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons):
Mineral oils contain aromatic rings that belong to a class of hydrocarbons called MOAH. These compounds are often found in printing inks and other products. For example, Toluene, Xylene, Ethylbenzene. But concerns are raised about their potential health dangers, particularly their carcinogenic properties. Therefore, regulatory bodies have set limits on the amount of MOAH present in inks in order to safeguard the health of both end users and those working in the printing process.
MOSH (Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons):
MOSH is made up of saturated hydrocarbons that come from mineral oils. In general, these hydrocarbons are thought to be less dangerous than their aromatic counterparts. Permissible levels must be established and followed because excessive exposure to MOSH might cause health issues.
Paraffins or naphthene and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons are the two principal types of mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH), which are generated from raw crude oil, coal, natural gas, or biomass (MOAH).
Selecting appropriate inks and adhesives is one way to reduce potential migration to foods. Concentration of MOAH & MOSH in printing inks should not exceed the following limits:
- MOAH (with 1 to 7 aromatic rings) ≤ 1%, effective from Jan 1, 2023
- MOSH (with 16 to 35 carbon atoms in the chain)
- MOAH (with 1 to 7 aromatic rings) ≤ 1%, effective from Jan 1, 2025
Ink Safety Standards: Importance of MOAH and MOSH in Printing Inks
Compliance with Principles:
Global regulatory organization such as EuPIA (European Printing Ink Association) has set standards and limitations for MOAH and MOSH in inks. Following these criteria demonstrates a company’s commitment to moral and ethical production practices.
Consumer Trust:
Adhering to MOAH and MOSH guidelines enhances consumer confidence in printed products. When it comes to advertising or packaging products, businesses and customers may feel secure knowing that the ink used complies with safety rules.
User’s Welfare:
The primary reason behind following MOAH and MOSH guidelines is to focus on health and safety of end users and those involved in the printing process. By lowering the quantity of potentially dangerous hydrocarbons, ink manufacturers contribute to a safer workplace and guarantee that printed items are safe for use.
Ecological Impact:
The rules contribute to reducing the harm that ink formulations cause to both the environment and human health. In the printing industry, manufacturers place a strong emphasis on sustainability by controlling MOAH and MOSH levels to reduce potential harm to aquatic life and ecosystems.
Conclusion:
In the world of ink printing, where creativity meets compliance, understanding and adhering to MOAH and MOSH standards are non-negotiable. These standards support regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility in addition to protecting the health of end users and those involved in the printing process.
As the printing industry develops, ethical and progressive ink makers will always place a high priority on sustainability and safety by adhering to MOAH and MOSH regulations. In light of the aforementioned demand, RUCO INX is closely monitoring the situation and prepared to move quickly.
Reference: www.siegwerk.com, www.merieuxnutrisciences.com
