MERCOSUR Adopts Two Resolutions Related to Cellulose and FCMs

The Grupo Mercado Común (GMC) of MERCOSUR (Mercado Común Del Sur or the “Common Market of the South”) adopted two resolutions related to cellulose and food-contact materials (FCMs). GMC Resolution 02/25, Amendment to GMC Resolution 40/15, MERCOSUR Technical Regulation on Cellulosic Materials, Packaging, and Equipment in Contact with Food, updates the restriction for diisopropylnaphthalene in cellulosic material made using recycled fibers. As a result, the diisopropylnaphthalene content in the finished product must now be as low as technically feasible. GMC Resolution 02/25 was approved on April 24, 2025, and must be incorporated into the national laws of the MERCOSUR member states before October 21, 2025. Brazil adopted this resolution on June 6, 2025.

GMC Resolution 16/25, MERCOSUR Technical Regulation on Regenerated Cellulose Films Intended to Come into Contact with Food (Repeal of GMC Resolution 55/97), adds purity requirements for regenerated cellulose films, and updates the positive list to include a few new substances. It was approved on July 1, 2025, and must be incorporated into member state laws before December 28, 2025.

In addition, Uruguay adopted GMC Res. 19/21, Modification of GMC Resolution 02/12 Positive List of Monomers, Other Starting Substances, and Polymers Authorized for the Production of Plastic Packaging and Equipment in Contact with Food, through Decree No. 120/025, which was published on June 11, 2025.

An overview of food-contact regulations in South America, with a focus on MERCOSUR member state countries, will be among the presentations at Keller and Heckman’s 26th annual Food Packaging Law Seminar, to be held October 7-8, 2025, in Arlington, VA (just outside of Washington, DC). More information on the seminar can be found here.