Overview
EN 602:2026 is a European Standard developed by CEN (European Committee for Standardization) specifying requirements for the chemical composition of wrought aluminium and aluminium alloy semi-finished products intended for the fabrication of articles in contact with foodstuff. The standard establishes maximum permissible levels of alloying elements and impurities, ensuring that materials are safe and suitable for food contact applications. It sets out procedures for the demonstration of conformity, supporting compliance with relevant European legislation such as packaging and materials in contact with food.
This standard is essential for manufacturers and processors of aluminium packaging and food contact materials, helping ensure food safety and regulatory compliance across European markets.
Key Topics
- Scope and Material Coverage: EN 602:2026 applies to semi-finished wrought aluminium and aluminium alloy products (such as sheets, foils, tubes, rods, and profiles) used for manufacturing food-contact articles, including packaging and utensils.
- Maximum Element Content: The standard provides exact limits for alloying elements and impurities. These include but are not limited to:
- Iron, Silicon, Copper, Magnesium, Manganese, Zinc, Titanium, Chromium, Lead, Cadmium, Mercury, and Hexavalent Chromium.
- Health and Regulatory Compliance:
- The standard incorporates limits based on toxicological considerations, particularly regarding heavy metal migration and compliance with permitted daily intake standards.
- References key European Directives, such as Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste.
- Selection and Verification:
- Manufacturers must select alloys and products that strictly adhere to the specified chemical limits.
- Conformity must be demonstrated through documented processes, using product inspection certificates in accordance with EN 10204.
- Traceability and Quality Assurance:
- Requirements for maintaining traceability of raw materials and products.
- Implementation of a quality assurance system to guarantee ongoing compliance.
Applications
EN 602:2026 is highly relevant across the aluminium industry, particularly for:
- Food and Beverage Packaging: Aluminium foils, cans, trays, and closures designed for direct contact with food and drinks.
- Kitchenware and Utensils: Items like pots, pans, serving trays, and cutlery, ensuring materials are safe for repeated contact with food.
- Food Processing Equipment: Conveyors, storage containers, and structural components used in food manufacturing plants.
- Distribution and Storage: Any semi-finished aluminium articles used for packaging, transporting, or storing edible goods, especially within regimes governed by strict regulatory requirements.
The standard helps manufacturers demonstrate due diligence and comply with both hygiene and environmental safety regulations in the European market.
Related Standards
- EN 573-3: Aluminium and aluminium alloys - Chemical composition and form of wrought products
- EN 10204: Metallic products - Types of inspection documents
- EN 12258-1: Aluminium and aluminium alloys - Terms and definitions
- Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004: On materials and articles intended to come into contact with food
- Commission Regulation (EC) No 2023/2006: On good manufacturing practice for food contact materials
- Directive 94/62/EC (as amended): On packaging and packaging waste
Manufacturers using aluminium and aluminium alloys for food contact must ensure products meet the specifications in EN 602:2026 alongside relevant European legislation and international standards, providing safety and reliability for end-users and consumers.