Zero Waste Europe publishes brief highlighting problems with polyvinyl chloride in food contact applications; advocates for restrictions due to health concerns from additives and microplastics; another report supports ECHA’s findings on significant risks associated with PVC; European civil society organizations petition phase out strategies
Latest News
July 24, 2024
Kenya updates aluminum foil standard
Kenya Bureau of Standards submits updated standard to World Trade Organization; covers aluminum foil for household use and catering; changes mostly affect mechanical property specifications; includes rules for metal content and heavy metal limits
July 23, 2024
What happens to micro- and nanoplastics in the body?
Study proposes a preliminary physiologically-based toxicokinetic (PBTK) model for micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs); polymer type, size, shape, surface chemistry, surface biofilms, and biocorona determine toxicokinetic rates; models for engineered nanoparticles are not appropriate due to heterogeneity of MNPs; uptake via inhalation and effects of absorbed chemicals need more investigation
July 19, 2024
Perspective: From “forever chemicals” to fluorine-free alternatives
Perspective article in Science argues PFAS substitution is urgently needed due to their persistence, hazards, and recent regulatory actions; avoiding “regrettable substitution” and finding suitable replacements requires a strategic approach; PFAS replacements should have an effective functionality, minimal safety issues, and a minimal environmental footprint; open data sharing can accelerate the discovery, development, and implementation of safer alternatives
July 18, 2024
Beyond Plastics report provides overview and critiques of bioplastics
Report by Beyond Plastics introduces terminology, current regulations and certifications, data on toxicity, waste management options, and considerations for policymakers; criticizes voluntary standards overseen by industry groups; notes bioplastics can be just as toxic as conventional plastics; offers guidance and checklist for businesses to ask suppliers
July 16, 2024
European industry associations report latest recycling rates
On average, 80.2% of glass packaging collected for recycling in 2022 in the EU; Steel recycling rate reaches 80.5%; 70% recycling rate for paper and board in the UK in 2023; 40% recycling rate for plastics in the EU in 2021
July 12, 2024
FDA plans reorganization, monitors PFAS phase-out
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) establishes Human Foods Program, unifying and modernizing certain functions under one program; implementation set for October 1, 2024; FDA is also monitoring PFAS phase-out, with many states implementing bans, and manufacturers switching to non-PFAS alternatives
July 8, 2024
Studies confirm hazardous substances in bio-based food contact materials
Three recent studies explore the chemical safety of bio-based food contact materials (FCMs); current analytical methods fail to detect all hazardous substances in bio-based FCMs, in vitro bioassays are suitable addition; Dutch “eco-friendly” FCMs often contain non-biodegradable components and substances like pesticides and PFAS; migration of allergens found
Food Packaging & Health
Regrettable substitution & the precautionary principle
When chemicals are assessed and regulated individually, the ones found…
Plastic recycling
Plastic recycling processes, regulations, market data and safety issues addressed
Bioassays
Rapid and cost-effective non-animal-based in vitro bioassays can be used…
Circular economy
A circular economy seeks to maintain the value of products…
Microplastics
Microplastics are an invisible form of plastic pollution; effects on…
Migration modeling
Mathematical modeling of chemical migration from food packaging into food…
Non-intentionally added substances (NIAS)
NIAS occur in all types of food contact materials, are…
Mineral oil hydrocarbons
Mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOHs) are commonly measured in food and…Dossiers
FPF dossiers are thoroughly researched by trained scientists. They provide in-depth background information about different topics pertinent to food contact materials and health. The dossiers compile scientific knowledge, market data and regulatory background in an easily accessible format. Dossiers include available data on chemical migration into food and effects on human health.
The Food Packaging Forum Foundation
The Food Packaging Forum Foundation (FPF) is a science communication organization. It is a charitable foundation based in Zurich, Switzerland. FPF provides independent and balanced information on issues related to chemicals in food packaging and other food contact articles, and their impact on health. FPF’s work addresses professional stakeholders, including business decision makers, regulators, scientists, media and communication experts. FPF is not a grantmaking foundation.
Fact sheet
Food packaging and human health
Food packaging is highly essential for protecting and handling food from farm to fork. However, packaging and other types of food contact articles are also a source of chemical contamination of food. The Food Packaging Forum’s fact sheet explains the most important aspects and provides resources for reducing chemical exposures.
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