EN 788:1994

Overview

EN 788:1994 is a European standard developed by CEN that specifies the general characteristics, requirements, and testing methods for tubular sacks made of composite film, designed specifically for the transport of food aid. These sacks are typically constructed from layered materials such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), aluminum, and PE (polyethylene), providing a composite structure that balances strength, protection, and suitability for food contact.

This standard establishes clear guidelines to ensure the safety, integrity, and suitability of sacks used in humanitarian and food distribution programs, where reliable packaging is essential for maintaining food quality during long storage and transport.

Key Topics

• Composite Film Construction: Focuses on the use of multiple materials to form a robust, protective film suitable for food contact.
• General Characteristics: Prescribes the physical and mechanical properties required for sacks to perform effectively in transport and handling.
• Requirements: Outlines criteria such as strength, durability, seal integrity, and food-grade material compliance.
• Test Methods: Specifies standardized procedures for verifying sack performance and conformance to quality benchmarks.
• Food Contact Compliance: Emphasizes the importance of materials being safe and suitable for direct contact with foodstuffs.

Applications

EN 788:1994 plays a critical role in the packaging and distribution of food aid on an international scale. Key applications include:

• Humanitarian Aid: Ensuring that sacks used to transport staple foods and other nutritional products remain intact and uncontaminated throughout complex supply chains.
• Disaster Relief Logistics: Providing reliable food packaging for rapid deployment in response to natural disasters or emergencies.
• Food Distribution Programs: Supporting NGOs, governments, and aid organizations in delivering food safely and efficiently across diverse environments.
• International Trade: Facilitating compliance with European and global standards for food packaging, simplifying cross-border food shipments.

Using composite film tubular sacks as specified in EN 788:1994 ensures high levels of protection against external contaminants, moisture, and light, which is vital for preserving food quality and safety during storage, handling, and extended distribution.

Related Standards

Organizations and professionals working to implement EN 788:1994 may also refer to the following standards for additional guidance:

• EN 15593 - Management of hygiene in the production of packaging for foodstuffs.
• EN 1186 - Materials and articles in contact with foodstuffs - Plastics.
• ISO 22000 - Food safety management systems - Requirements for any organization in the food chain.
• EN 863 - Packaging - Resistance to puncture.

These related standards address complementary aspects such as food packaging hygiene, material safety, and broader food safety management, providing a comprehensive approach to packaging design, production, and distribution.

By implementing EN 788:1994, organizations ensure that sacks for food aid transportation are robust, reliable, and fully compliant with food safety regulations, contributing to the effective and secure global distribution of humanitarian food supplies.