ASTRX (Applying Systems Thinking to Recycling) project publishes report reviewing efficiency of packaging materials through recycling processes; highlights flexible films and shrink sleeves as problematic, calls for increased purchasing of recycled content to boost market demand
Discount retailers pushed to act on harmful chemicals
Center for Environmental Health and Campaign for Healthier Solutions urge U.S. discount retailers to take action on fluorinated chemicals in microwave popcorn bags
Report critically reviews socioeconomic assessments
New Economics Foundation publishes report investigating use of discount rates in socioeconomic assessments for industrial chemicals regulations under REACH; recommends considering precautionary principle regardless of economic effects, questions whether effects should be monetized
Styrene concentrations in German and Italian refrigerated dairy products
Scientists assess styrene levels in polystyrene food packaging, migration into refrigerated dairy products, in 50% ethanol, as well as factors influencing migration; report styrene migration of 5 to 30 µg/kg food at the best before date; find food contact area, temperature and time rather than fat content influence styrene migration
Contribution of packing to PFC levels in food
New study investigates impact of production and packaging on perfluorinated compound concentration in dairy products, dairy cow exposure main source, grease proof wraps an avoidable contributor
Recent innovations in packaging
Companies present paper-based packaging for alcoholic beverages, multipack cans; new designs and materials for better recyclability; more products reported to use 100% recycled plastics
Taiwan bans PVC in food packaging
Taiwan’s Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) announces food packaging made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) will no longer be allowed by July 2023 and it is strengthening its scheme to reduce use of single-use plastic cups
Dissolvable milk pods for coffee
German researchers develop dissolvable, single-serve milk and sugar capsules for hot drinks as alternative to coffee creamers packaged in small plastic containers
Nordic Council checks compliance of products sold online
Inspectors from Nordic countries examine 361 products ordered online for compliance with various EU chemicals legislation; find 53% non-compliant, higher rate of non-compliance for products sold by companies outside of EU; lead, short chain chlorinated paraffins, diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) detected most often
Rite Aid expands chemical policy to include FCMs
Drug store chain Rite Aid expands its chemicals policy to cover food contact materials (FCMs); restricted substances list sets concentration limits, does not allow intentional use in food packaging of various heavy metals, all ortho-phthalates, all per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)