NGOs call for horizontal criteria to identify endocrine disruptors in all types of applications, not just pesticides and biocides; urge EU Commission to redesign its currently proposed EDC criteria
EU authorization of PET recycling for FCMs coming soon
Euractiv article discusses imminent authorization of plastic recycling processes for food contact by EU Commission; concerns about chemical contamination and migration remain; adoption foreseen by end of 2018
Food packaging made from milk protein
Researchers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture develop biodegradable and edible packaging film made from the milk protein casein; applications include single-serve wrappers and pouches
Gaps in FCM regulation
Extensive article informs about gaps in FCM regulation in the EU, hazardous substances found in FCMs, and efforts made by regulators, industry, and non-profit organizations to improve the situation
EFSA EREN: Annual report 2015
EFSA publishes 2015 annual report of Emerging Risks Exchange network (EREN); 13 emerging issues discussed; most issues classify as chemical hazards and refer to increased exposures
Where do collected recyclables go?
New York Times addresses China’s ban on waste imports, illustrates impacts on recycling programs in the U.S. and globally
EDCs in paper and board food packaging
Danish researchers identify well-known and new EDCs in paper and board food packaging
Microplastic and pigment particles in water
Scientists detect thousands of small particles of microplastics, pigments, additives in bottled mineral water; higher particle content in reusable paper-labeled bottles; printing inks on labels identified as novel contamination source
Consumer exposure to PFAS in food packaging
Silent Spring Institute publishes report investigating PFAS exposure, finds consuming home-cooked meals reduces exposure compared to restaurant consumption; U.S. state of Washington to focus on paper wraps and liners during alternatives assessment; U.S. presidential candidate pledges to label substance class as hazardous substances
Lead and arsenic in food contact paper
Low migration of lead and arsenic measured in food contact paper bought in Korea; resulting human exposure estimated to be within safe levels