EU reference laboratory for FCMs publishes practical guidance on the identification of the components in multilayer films used in food contact materials
Alternatives to perfluorinated chemicals
New study reviews environmental releases, persistence and exposure of perfluorinated chemical alternatives, looks at 20 fluorinated substances including eight used in FCMs
EFSA assesses co-monomer for use in multilayer FCMs
EFSA’s CEF Panel considers 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-dicarboxylic acid, dimethyl ester safe for use in polyester layers, not intended for direct food contact, under certain conditions
Microplastics affect gut function and microbiota
Scientists find chronic exposure of mice to polystyrene microplastics affects intestinal barrier function, gut microbiota composition, metabolic indices
Oligomers in PBT and PEN polyesters
Scientists characterize oligomers in polybutylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate intended for food contact; oligomer migration from PBT considered safe based on threshold of toxicological concern considerations
Outcome of consultations on EDC guidance
European Food Safety Agency publishes technical report detailing outcome of several consultations on its Guidance for identification of endocrine disruptors
Oligomers in PEF polyester
Scientists find ‘abundant’ oligomers in polyethylene furanoate, identify 20 circular and linear oligomer species sized <1000 Da; exact quantities of migrating oligomers to be determined in future investigations
BPA warning label in California
State of California takes emergency action on BPA and proposes temporary uniform warning label for food cans and bottles as deadline for Prop65 compliance approaches
U.S. EPA: Final nanomaterials reporting rule
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issues final rule on nanomaterials reporting to come into effect May 2017
Studies report on bisphenol exposure and health effects
Review summarizes plastic-associated bisphenol A (BPA) sources, exposure, and human health risks; dietary bisphenol exposure via packaged food consumption in Saudi Arabia is potential human health concern; review discusses bisphenols’ effects on the cardiovascular system and recommends human-relevant studies with bisphenols other than BPA; consensus scoring analysis identifies endocrine-disrupting food contact chemicals potentially interacting with nuclear receptors