Chemical phased out from cleaning detergent is also used in food packaging
Study finds microplastics impact colon cancer cells, could increase metastasis
Study of colon cancer cell lines finds polystyrene micro and nanoplastic particles (MNPs) can be absorbed into cancerous cells in experimental settings; the more aggressive cell line absorbed the most MNPs and presence of MNPs increased cell movement; evidence of persistence and bioaccumulation; authors argue MNPs fit criteria as substance of concern under REACH
Non-allergic asthma not well understood
Wall Street Journal reports on new study linking phthalate exposure to asthma; researchers slowly unveil the mechanisms of non-allergic asthma
Antimony trioxide inhalation limit
U.S. scientific organization recommends lowering inhalation limit to 0.02 mg/m3; industry group warns of cost increases and intransparency in calculations
Replacing BPA with equally unsafe alternatives
Philadelphia newspaper reports on U.S. research efforts into BPA; adds to evidence that BPA is harmful; worrisome alternatives marketed
EPA: Priority substances for TSCA evaluation
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency prioritizes 20 substances to undergo risk evaluation according to Toxic Substances Control Act; list includes several solvents, phthalates, flame retardants, chemical intermediates with food contact relevance; public consultation now open
Civil society organizations introduce new certification program for reusable food packaging
Standard aims at improving chemical safety of reusable food contact articles and reducing plastic waste; involves rigorous testing and transparency of ingredients used in the packaging
Proposals for change from inside and outside the US FDA
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposes structural changes within the institution in response to recent critique; includes increased focus on nutrition, partnerships with other regulatory authorities and incorporating outside advisors; Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) publishes report on obesogens; encourages FDA to ‘incorporate framework’ to identify obesogens and other endocrine disruptors when reviewing chemical safety
Netherlands add tax for plastic takeaway packaging
As of July 1, 2023, single-use plastic takeaway packaging requires additional price in the Netherlands; reusable alternative must be offered; usage of single-use plastic for dine-in guests banned as of January 1, 2024
ANEC proposes alternative FCM regulatory approach
European Association for the Coordination of Consumer Representation in Standardization (ANEC) position paper criticizes industry self-control in food contact material (FCM) legislation; recommends set of guiding principles; includes significantly reducing number of approved substances and materials, requiring pre-market authorization for all substances in final materials including non-intentionally added