Article in Environmental Science and Technology (ES&T) critical of safety concerns raised by industry association related to reusable shopping bags, argues their infrequent handling poses less risk than other transmission pathways; explains that single-use paper bags would be safer option than plastic due to lower virus survival time
Over 115 health experts sign statement on safety of reuse
Greenpeace and UPSTREAM publish statement signed by wide-range of doctors and public health researchers, emphasize that reuse systems in stores and restaurants can be implemented safely during COVID-19 pandemic by following standard sanitation laws; single-use items not inherently safer than reusables
Authorship of chemicals bill questioned
Authorship of new chemical safety act introduced by U.S. Senators David Vitter and Tom Udall is being questioned
NGOs comment on UN EDC reports
ChemSec and CIEL discuss UN overview reports on endocrine disruptors, highlight value of SIN List, importance of using scientific information for policies and regulations
Companies target 100% bio-based PET
New process converts non-food biomass into important feedstock for PET production; partner companies aim to achieve fully bio-based PET that is cost-competitive
FCM compliance conference
Regulatory developments for food contact materials discussed at Intertek and European Plastics News conference on 15-16 October in Nice, France
Common biocides cause reproductive problems in mice
Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) used in food processing plants affect fertility and fecundity
FPF comments on EU chemicals strategy roadmap
Food Packaging Forum (FPF) submits feedback on European Commission’s roadmap to develop chemicals strategy for sustainability; calls for sufficient support to establish appropriate test methods, prioritize substitution of the known hazardous chemicals currently authorized for use in food contact materials
JRC addresses combined exposure to chemicals
The EU Commission’s JRC publishes a comprehensive overview on safety assessment of chemical mixtures
Stakeholders comment on farm to fork strategy
Non-governmental organizations call for improved and mandatory sharing of chemical and safety data across packaging supply chain; industry associations request clear regulations, more harmonization of EU rules