New study by ClientEarth finds that decisions by European Commission on use of substances of very high concern are ‘delayed unreasonably’ in most cases
Public consultation on bio-based, biodegradable, and compostable plastics
European Commission (EC) opens a public comment period on biobased, biodegradable, and compostable plastics; consultation will advise EC during development of new policies for these plastics; three areas of particular focus: sustainability of feedstocks, verification of biodegradation claims, and “widespread confusion” among consumers on terms and proper disposal routes; comment period open until March 15, 2022
Starbucks to trial compostable cups
Coffee company and coffeehouse chain Starbucks announces trialing of recyclable, compostable cups in several U.S. cities; NGO highlights need for change in consumer behavior, advocates for more reusable cups
Opinion: Commission blocked EDC criteria
EurActiv reports that Commission president impeded endocrine disruptor criteria and other environmental legislation initiatives
Predicting the safety of food contact articles: New science and digital opportunities
The 2018 annual Food Packaging Forum (FPF) Workshop featured high profile speakers and offered an ideal platform for exchanging views with different stakeholders in the field of food contact materials (FCMs). The FPF Workshop is a one-of-a-kind event in the FCMs world to learn about recent developments in science, business, advocacy, and regulation. As in previous years, the 6th edition of the FPF Workshop also presented an excellent opportunity for networking. If you have any questions regarding the FPF Workshop, […]
JRC Symposium compares microplastic analysis methods
European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) symposium summarizes current approaches for microplastic monitoring; research institutions present results of 4 inter-laboratory microplastic analysis comparison studies; no ‘one-size-fits-all’ analytical method, presenters emphasize need for harmonization; Commission outlines policy needs
Industry association complains to EU Commission about French BPA ban
PlasticsEurope concerned that French BPA regulation will disrupt the EU market
Authorized FCMs may harm children’s brains
NGO finds 300 food additives to interact with thyroid system, 41% are used as food contact materials
Chinese government and industry work on FCM regulation
China amending the national food contact material (FCM) regulation for the first time since 2016; amendments would expand use of previously approved food contact chemicals (FCCs) and food additives; redefines FCM to clarify that packaging material must contact the food item; industry association issues draft guidance; regulatory agencies approve or in process of approving multiple new FCCs
FDA adds thirteen substances to food contact inventory
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) adds 13 new entries to its Inventory of Effective Food Contact Substance (FCS); notifications submitted since August 6, 2020