MSST Committee updates manufacturing standards for textbooks, approves 10% reduction in tear specification for 40# and 45# paper grades and 1-point reduction in opacity for 50# grades

The Manufacturing Standards and Specifications for Textbooks (MSST) Committee has updated the standard for the first time since 2020. Due to shifts in the paper market, leading publishers and printers in the industry were concerned about the potential scarcity of paper meeting current MSST testing specifications. The Committee looked at revising the MSST testing specifications to allow for the use of alternative paper stocks in the future without compromising the durability of textbooks.

Following comprehensive testing in 2023/2024, the committee has approved minor adjustments, including a 10% reduction in the Machine Direction Tear specification for 40# and 45# paper grades and a 1-point reduction in the opacity specification for 50# grades. These changes aim to ensure a broader range of paper stocks meet MSST standards while maintaining textbook durability and quality.

The committee emphasizes its ongoing commitment to upholding the integrity of the MSST standards and will continue to work closely with paper mills to refine and expand the available paper grades that meet these rigorous specifications.

The purpose of the MSST Committee is to manage and maintain the Manufacturing Standards and Specifications for Textbooks (MSST). The MSST is used to maintain appropriate physical standards of quality and performance for printed elementary and secondary instructional materials, which may include textbooks, related educational materials, bound, unbound and kit- or package-form materials.