Researchers analyzed microplastics presence in drinking waters; report 7 out of 9 best-selling bottled mineral waters in France contain microplastics; find widespread microplastics contamination of free drinking water refill kiosks across Mexico City
Studies report on bisphenol exposure and health effects
Review summarizes plastic-associated bisphenol A (BPA) sources, exposure, and human health risks; dietary bisphenol exposure via packaged food consumption in Saudi Arabia is potential human health concern; review discusses bisphenols’ effects on the cardiovascular system and recommends human-relevant studies with bisphenols other than BPA; consensus scoring analysis identifies endocrine-disrupting food contact chemicals potentially interacting with nuclear receptors
Testing release of metals from ceramics
EU reference laboratory for FCMs publishes report on approaches to test release of metals from ceramic articles; over seventy samples tested to compare migration in two food simulants and tomato sauce
Microplastics in food: occurrence, source, detection, and perception
Three studies investigate microplastics in foods; review summarizes particle migration from food packaging into honey and calls for universal analysis methods; research study presents analytical method to detect and identify microplastics in certain foods; survey finds public seems unaware of food packaging as microplastic source and seldomly connects microplastics with human health consequences
NGOs urge more protective EDC strategy in EU
EDC-free Europe coalition of NGOs urges definitive actions to reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors ahead of upcoming debate by Council of EU Environmental Ministers
EU Commission presents EDC strategy
European Commission publishes communication outlining the EU’s strategic approach to managing endocrine disruptors; NGOs criticize lack of specific actions and missing timeline to reduce EDC exposure
Brand audits identify top polluters
Report by Greenpeace and Break Free From Plastic names 10 global companies whose products appear to be the biggest contributors to plastic pollution worldwide based on findings from beach cleanups and brand audits
3M launches PFAS resources website, offers free reference standards
Website compiles previously published studies related to lab measurements, field testing, and remediation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); reference standards for four PFAS mixtures can be ordered by research institutions in the U.S.
BPA-free can coatings progressing slowly
Developing non-BPA can coatings challenges manufacturers; lower-production-volume raw materials result in higher cost; lower performance reduces shelf-life
Nordic Council calls for toxic-free environment
The Nordic Council requires new rules aimed at minimizing exposure to EDCs, scientific criteria for EDCs shall be defined as soon as possible