Researchers analyze options to increase recycling rates; laboratory study reports using untargeted migrants analysis as a feasible tool to discern recycled from virgin polyethylene (PE); stakeholder analysis finds equal involvement of all relevant actors needed to improve PET plastic recycling
Nanoplastics affect gene expression in the placenta and reproductive health, scientists find
Study using perfused human placental tissue demonstrates polystyrene nanoplastics affect expression of inflammation and iron homeostasis-related genes; review summarizes that small plastic particles can enter reproductive organs and affect reproductive health, however further research needed to verify the results and assess mechanisms of reproductive toxicity
Report assesses benefits of increasing reusable beverage packaging
Estimates that ten percent increase in reusable packaging by 2030 could eliminate over 1 trillion single-use plastic bottles and cups; finds expanding reuse to be more effective than expanding recycling; calls for beverage companies to set reuse targets
IPEN webinar: Food contact chemicals, EDCs, and policy opportunities
International Pollution Elimination Network (IPEN) webinar to explore chemicals in food contact materials, health threats of endocrine disrupting chemicals, and global policy opportunities; presentations will be available in English, Arabic, French, Russian, and Spanish
EFSA seeks data on plasticizers in food contact materials
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) calls for data on migration and occurrence of plasticizers, such as phthalates, in food contact materials (FCMs); aims to gather migration data to assess dietary exposure and enhance the safety of FCMs; national food authorities, research institutions, and food businesses are invited to submit data by August 31, 2023
European Commission reports on public consultation about FCM revision
European Commission (EC) publishes final report on consultation period concerning FCM policy revision; results feature citizens’ and stakeholder’s opinions on extent of FCM policy; Commission adoption planned for second quarter of 2023
Fluorinated chemicals in cake packaging
Danish consumer council finds elevated levels of fluorinated substances in 3 out of 21 paper and board packagings of ready-made cakes; test results indicate decreased intentional use of fluorinated chemicals in baking paper since 2016
Why do “chemicals” need simplifying?
Scientists’ Viewpoint proposes ‘chemical simplification’ to deal with increasing chemical pollution; names reduction of number of chemicals used in products and grouping approaches as cornerstones for simplification and innovation in science and engineering as prerequisite
Scientific studies evaluate microplastic effects on human cells
Rapid review assesses microplastics impacts on human cells and reports thresholds of effects lower than previously predicted; scientific study finds polystyrene (PS) microplastics to have nephrotoxic potential; reproduction and fertility study with mice reports PS microplastics to affect females more than males
Towards standardization of paper and cardboard sample preparation procedures
Scoping review assesses state-of-the-art of paper and cardboard food packaging safety assessment; maps sample preparation approaches, challenges, and factors influencing chemical migration; provides guidance to develop and evaluate standardized sample preparation methods