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
U.S. EPA: Final nanomaterials reporting rule
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issues final rule on nanomaterials reporting to come into effect May 2017
Scientists measure mixtures of EDCs from human placenta
Study by the European Human Biomonitoring Initiative (HBM4EU) finds chemical mixture extracts from human placenta with endocrine-disrupting properties, confirming developmental exposure to EDCs in the womb; novel method can help identify the link between chemical exposures and harmful human health outcomes
Study integrates PFAS into life cycle assessment
Researchers create framework to consider the impacts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in life cycle assessment (LCA); develops impact characterization factors within USEtox model; finds that even low PFAS emissions can have large effects on LCA results
Implementation of EDC criteria for biocides
EU biocides authorities settle how criteria to identify endocrine disruptors for biocides will be realized; criteria to apply from June 7, 2018; ECHA and EFSA prepare final guidance document
Diabetes cases reach 382 million
Press agency Reuters reports on diabetes epidemic, expected rise of 55 % until 2035
Sweden has wide support in the court case on EDC criteria
Sweden took EC to court due to failure to adopt EDC criteria by the end of 2013, case now gained support of European Parliament and Council along with Member States
Strategy for assessing EDCs
Dutch institute for public health (RIVM) publishes reports showing need for strategy to evaluate endocrine disrupting properties of chemicals
11th amendment to EU plastic FCM regulation
EU Commission publishes 11th amendment to plastic FCM regulation, authorizes 2 new food contact substances, changes specific migration limits for 2 existing Union List substances