Scientists explore potential impacts of microplastics on human intestine ecology; microplastics may drive unhealthy changes in the gut microbiome; authors highlight importance of assessing human microplastics exposure and hazards for the gut
ISOE: Guidance on reducing and improving food packaging materials
Scientists at the German Institute for Social-Ecological Research (ISOE) give practical recommendations for food supply companies, associations as well as decision-makers related to reducing single-use and supporting multiple-use packaging, recycling, and innovation on a technological and organizational level
Materials in contact with drinking water
European drinking water association calls for harmonized EU-wide implementation of the Drinking Water Directive and common approach for acceptance of materials and products in contact with drinking water
Walmart continues reducing problematic substances
U.S. retailer Walmart further reduces use of 8 high priority chemicals in its products; NGOs welcome progress
Mechanical seals risk food contamination
Ensuring compliance of seals used in food production equipment is essential for food production safety
Beverage carton recycling grows in Europe
Recycling of beverage cartons in the EU reaches 48% in 2017; total recovery rate at 76%
High disease costs attributed to EDC exposure
New series of studies suggests that costs attributable to EDCs are over €150 billion per year in Europe
Survey finds food safety to be a major packaging trend
A study finds that industry professionals rank food safety in the top three trends in the packaging industry together with cost and sustainability.
Cost of EU chemicals regulation
European Commission publishes study assessing the cost of regulation on EU’s chemical industry; CHEM Trust and Cefic release commentaries
ChemSec evaluates largest chemical producers
Organization releases ChemScore tool that scores top 35 chemical producers based on hazardous chemicals in product portfolios, design strategies, transparency, and history of accidents and controversies; aims to inform investors and promote investment in responsible chemical companies