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Microplastics detected in human testis and semen

Scientists assess microplastics in 30 human semen and 6 testis samples; first to demonstrate presence in human male reproductive system; review finds 9 out of 11 studies demonstrate that plastic particles can translocated across placental barrier

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WHO report on microplastics in drinking water

Microplastics do not currently pose human health risk in drinking water according to World Health Organization; studies however seen as limited and often unreliable; calls for standardization of analysis methods and minimization of plastic pollution

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Bottle cap liners test positive for phthalates and PVC

Toxic Free Food Campaign reports on the use of ortho-phthalates and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in cap gaskets of bottled beverages from 141 brands; finds 66% of the cap liners made of PVC and gaskets of 50 beverage brands to contain ortho-phthalates; several beverage companies respond by announcing to phase out phthalates

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Applying the safe and sustainable by design framework

European Joint Research Centre (JRC) publishes document to guide designers and assessors through the application of the voluntary Safe and Sustainable by Design framework; describes the steps of the framework, how to define system, frequently asked questions, and suggestions for where to find more information; following framework does not guarantee EU regulatory compliance; European Commission accepting feedback until August 30, 2024

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Mapping microplastics in the male reproductive system

Study provides an in-depth look at microplastics in the male reproductive system, analyzes human and mouse samples to chart concentrations and polymer types; finds microplastics in all human testes samples and majority of semen samples; larger plastic particles may get trapped in testis, leading to higher concentrations; identifies correlation between urbanization, home-cooked meals, and body scrub used to microplastics concentration

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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