New United Nations report finds microplastic contamination in commercial fish and shellfish; more research needed to determine risks for human health
News Article
February 1, 2017
News Article
March 20, 2014
Asbestos responsible for higher mortality than car accidents
The New Statesman reports on asbestos industry and its victims; some types of asbestos also authorized for food contact materials in US
News Article
February 16, 2018
Assessing risks of hydrophobic chemicals
Scientists argue that water-focused assessment schemes may misjudge risks of hydrophobic chemicals; sediments, particles, exposure through diet additionally play an important role; contribution of microplastics and nanoplastics uncertain but likely low
News Article
May 8, 2019
IPEN: ‘alarming levels’ in recycled plastics
Analyses of consumer products made of recycled plastics show high concentrations of brominated dioxins and brominated flame retardants; IPEN calls for stricter controls
News Article
February 19, 2014
Bottle-feeding raises BPA levels in infants
Polycarbonate baby bottles contribute to increased bisphenol A serum levels in infants
News Article
July 4, 2018
G7 charter on plastics
Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and UK sign plastics charter, commit to more recycling and reuse, recovery of all plastics, reduction of single-use plastics
News Article
July 1, 2013
137 chemicals in cord blood of Canadian newborns
Environmental Defence detects food contact substances in cord blood
News Article
April 29, 2021
Wendy's to phase out PFAS by end of 2021
Fast food chain Wendy’s will eliminate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer-facing packaging in the US and Canada by the end of 2021, establish restricted substances list (RSL); faster phase-out timeline than competitor McDonald’s; public health advocates applaud fast-paced commitment, call on Burger King to take similar action
News Article
August 31, 2023
Microplastics can lead to behavioral changes in mice
Scientists find polystyrene microplastics reduce cell viability, translocate in the body, modify mice behavior, and change their liver and brain immune markers after short-term exposure; effects potentially age-dependent; two reviews summarize nano- and microplastic impacts on fertility and potential implications
News Article
April 3, 2017
New draft of German mineral oil ordinance
German authorities publish draft ordinance restricting the migration of mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons; no limit for mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons included
