Scientists observe BPA exposure in mice decreases anti-inflammatory metabolites produced by gut microbiota, worsens disease symptoms and mortality in disease model of induced colitis
Global Commitment and Brand Audit reports 2019
New Plastics Economy progress report applauds steps taken by signatories, highlights reductions in virgin plastic use by corporations, new policies introduced by governments; reminds readers much still to be done by 2025; Break Free From Plastic publishes 2019 Brand Audit Report, calls on top brands to reduce single-use plastic items
France to restrict sale of fruits and vegetables in plastic
France announces ban on sale of unprocessed fruits and vegetables packaged in plastic from January 1, 2022; will not apply to products over 1.5 kg, sensitive fruits, and vegetables; use of stickers on individual fruits and vegetables not allowed unless made from paper or compostable materials; rules to apply to all produce
2024 food contact chemical and material policy outlook
Public and political concerns related to chemical exposures, human health, and environmental pollution continue to grow; brief overview of some of the EU, US, and UN policies and projects that FPF is tracking in 2024
Call for reducing MOH in foods
Scientist reviews existing toxicological assessments of mineral oil hydrocarbons in foods, calls for lowering acceptable intake levels and phasing out use in food and food contact applications
Coffee makers release lead
German risk assessment institute reports excessive lead migration from coffee and espresso makers, highest migration from portafilter machines
Food main source of phthalate exposure
German institutions investigate DEHP exposure sources
Hazard categories for nanomaterials
EU research project NanoToxClass aims to classify nanomaterials based on hazard potential for human health, generates new data on nanomaterials’ mode of action
Lower threshold for nanomaterial registration under REACH
The German Ministry of Occupational Safety and Health suggests lowering the REACH registration threshold for nanomaterials to 100kg/year
Conference on aluminum exposure from FCMs
German Federal Institute of Risk Assessment holds conference on health risks of aluminum; addresses exposure from food contact materials, links to disease and exposure reduction