New York Governor Kathy Hochul proposes limiting PFAS, heavy metals, and phthalates in all packaging to 100 ppm by weight by 2024; also urges extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging; at least six other states considering packaging EPR legislation; state-owned or contracted foodservice facilities in California must now use food packaging that is reusable, recyclable, or compostable
Target requests more chemical data from suppliers
U.S. retailer Target asks suppliers to provide more information on chemicals to fulfil its goals on ingredient transparency and product reformulation
Non-target screening of silicone rubber extracts
Scientists perform non-target screening of compounds extracted from infant silicone teats; identify 140 compounds in 12 categories; more than a third of substances need safety evaluation
Letter to the authors of BPA oral absorption study
EHP publishes a letter to Gayrard et al. and the researchers’ response, points to differences in BPA exposure throughout the body
Dollar Tree joins Chemical Footprint Project
U.S. discount retailer Dollar Tree joins Chemical Footprint Project; survey results to be published in project’s 4th annual report in 3rd quarter of 2019
Plastics policy in the UK needs clarity and reform
Greenpeace and Everyday Plastic publish results from voluntary plastic waste audit of nearly 100,000 UK homes; finds UK households throw away nearly 100 billion pieces of plastic a year, 83% of which is from food and drinks; waste organizations within the country ask for stronger policies and more clarity on existing goals
Parabens increase BPA exposure
Parabens inhibit several biotransformation enzymes involved in steroid hormone metabolism and chemical detoxification; study in mice shows that co-exposure with butyl paraben results in elevated internal levels of estradiol and BPA
No specific target for the reduction of plastic bag use
European Commission adopts proposal on reduction of the use of light weight plastic bags, Member states to choose target and instruments
Canada identifies four parabens for toxic substances list
Government publishes draft screening assessment of 7 parabens, identifies 4 to present danger to human health or environment at current levels of exposure; proposed risk management published; findings open for public comment until May 13, 2020
IARC replies to critiques
IARC scientists reply to critical commentary; point out the importance of hazard classification as an initial step in the risk assessment process, highlight the role of epidemiological evidence