MOSH (Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbon)

MOSH (Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbon), chain and ring-shaped. MOAH (Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbon), predominately alkylated polycyclic. MOSH and MOAH are mineral oils commonly used in industrial inks, notably used for printing newspapers. Â Since newspapers form a significant part of the paper/carton recycling stream, recycled paperboard often contains a mixture of MOSH and MOAH. Â A potential health hazard if ingested, regulations exist concerning the migration of MOSH into foodstuffs. Although not yet directly regulated, MOAH typically contains components that are known to be carcinogens. A hidden health concern in recycled paperboard Paperboard used for food packaging is commonly made of recycled paper products. Â The concern is that residual mineral oil inks in the recyclate may migrate into food, either from the carton box itself or from the outer carton box used for shipping. Â Using virgin paperboard for food packaging is a temporary solution, but supplies are limited.