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Studying phthalates: Linkage with dietary habits and molecular changes

Biomonitoring finds regular takeaway food consumption increases phthalate exposure; intervention study links plastic packaged hot soup consumption with increased phthalate exposure and changes in mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines; structural analysis suggests non-phthalate alternative plasticizers have potential for thyroid hormone disruption

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FPF overview presentation on reuse and COVID-19

Food Packaging Forum (FPF) presentation provides a look into the ongoing multi-stakeholder debate on the safety of reusable food packaging during the COVID-19 pandemic; reviews recommendations from governments, calls for action from industry associations and civil society

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Factsheet on safety of reuse during COVID-19 pandemic

UPSTREAM publication answers seven frequently asked questions on the safety of reusable products such as packaging and food service ware; emphasizes that single-use products are not safer than reusable ones, food safety regulations ensure proper cleaning and sanitation of reusable products

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FAO updates COVID guidance for food businesses

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) updates their report on guidance for preventing transmission of COVID-19 within food businesses; states “data indicates that neither food nor food packaging is a pathway for the spread of viruses causing respiratory illnesses, including SARS-CoV-2”; update replaces guidance document from April 2020

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EFSA assesses safety of 3 FCM substances

EFSA’s CEF Panel considers poly((R)-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-(R)-3-hydroxyhexanoate), polyacrylic acid, sodium salt, cross-linked, and potassium metabisulfite safe for use in food contact materials under certain conditions

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Study characterizes chemicals present within recycled products

Scientific study characterizes chemicals contained in 210 consumer products made of recycled or virgin material regarding identity, functional use, structural class, and origin and prioritizes chemicals; 65% of chemicals with greater concentrations in recycled materials, along with a higher number of flame retardants, biocides, dyes, and fragrances in recycled materials

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Scientists identify most harmful food contact chemicals

Researchers led by the Food Packaging Forum (FPF) publish paper identifying 388 chemicals intentionally used in food contact materials (FCMs) that are harmful according to the EU’s Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability; 127 of these chemicals of concern have been measured to be present in FCMs including 30 monomers and 122 carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction (CMR) chemicals