Low migration of lead and arsenic measured in food contact paper bought in Korea; resulting human exposure estimated to be within safe levels
Unwanted chemicals in drinking bottles
Norwegian Consumer Council finds phthalates, bisphenols, brominated flame retardants, chlorinated paraffins leaching from reusable plastic drinking bottles into water
BPA in recycled PET
Scientists detect high levels of bisphenol A in recycled polyethylene terephthalate, suggest monitoring BPA in rPET necessary to support ‘BPA-free’ claims
Test finds majority of FCAs contain DEHP
Swedish Chemicals Agency (KEMI) finds endocrine disrupting chemical bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) in 48 of 60 (80%) of tested paper/board food packaging items; detects also dibutylphthalat (DBP) and Bisphenol A (BPA)
NGOs request clarification on nanometal biocides in products
Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL) with 12 other NGOs publish an open letter to European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) , request clarification on regulation and risk management of products treated with nanosilver, zinc oxide, copper biocides; antimicrobial resistance, human health effects unclear
PVC additive assessment tool
Industry initiative Vinyl Plus announces creation of tool to assess life cycle impacts of additives used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products; civil society groups criticize the approach as ‘greenwashing and misleading’
Webinar on toxicity of paper and board FCMs
Collaborative on Health and the Environment holds webinar on in vitro testing of paper and board food contact materials, January 18, 2018; registration now open
Sweet potato and thyme used for bio-packaging film
U.S. scientists develop nanocomposite film from sweet potato starch, thyme essential oil, and nanoclay; potential applications include packaging of fresh fruits and vegetables
Target presents new sustainable packaging goals
U.S. retailer Target announces new sustainability goals for its own-brand packaging, pledges efforts to improve recycling and increase demand for recycled packaging
Walmart evaluates its chemical footprint
Walmart becomes first retailer to participate in Chemical Footprint Project survey, measuring its use and reduction of chemicals of concern