Erasmus+ project FitNESS launches interdisciplinary e-learning platform; independent learning resource about food packaging and related topics from food science and technology, packaging technology, material science, toxicology, mass transfer, thermodynamics
BfR answers consumer questions on EDCs
German risk assessment institute opens fourth online-dialogue forum for consumers, questions on EDCs to be answered by president
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
Public consultation on EDCs: replies published
European Commission received 27 087 responses, majority submitted via online campaigns
Game launched to inform about impacts of food choices
The Lexicon develops online game to bring awareness about personal food choices on health, environment, and culture; supporting resource articles provide insights from experts into developing sustainable diets, dietary guidelines, and making choices about the food we eat
EU: Public consultation on chemicals legislation
European Commission announces public consultation on the regulatory fitness of chemicals legislation in the EU (REACH not included)
Studies examine phthalate migration from PVC films and adhesives
Recent articles in scientific journals analyze plastic packaging and adhesive materials used in contact with food for phthalate content and migration; polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cling films and adhesive labels are source of phthalate contamination to food; food characteristics, e.g., structure of fruit peel, lipid content, influence migration level; recommend avoiding direct food contact to labels, minimizing exposure time
U.S. state lawmakers focus on developing PFAS legislation
Analysis from Safer States finds 29 U.S. states currently considering over 180 chemicals policies; focus placed largely on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) with 13 states specifically considering restrictions on PFAS in food packaging; Wisconsin opens online survey for PFAS Action Council until February 21, 2020
EFSA authorizes six PET recycling processes for up to 100 % use in food contact materials
EFSA authorized PET recycling processes based on the STARLINGER IV+ technology and the “RPET Nosinyec process”
Chlorinated BPA disrupts hormone signaling in new ways
New study investigates potential effects of BPA contaminated public drinking water, chlorinated BPA may mess up cell signaling