Calls for ‘one substance – one hazard assessment’ principle, specific provisions for endocrine disrupting chemicals in food contact materials to be treated similar to substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction
PFAS research snapshot Q4 2023: presence, migration, health concerns, and regrettable substitution
Scientists detect two per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in plastic food storage bags; study assesses PFAS in 119 single-use food packaging and tableware samples from around the world and detectes PFAS in 54%; two reviews raise awareness of PFAS impact on human liver health and safety issues connected with the PFAS substitutes – polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters (PAPs); scientist calls for more research to assess combined environmental effect of microplastics and PFAS
FPF Workshop 2020: Scientific research and policy making
Six speakers share their views on how to improve food contact material (FCM) safety; different approaches might complement one another; linking scientific research, policy making and industry initiatives could be the key to safe FCMs
New book discusses chemical pollution, reproductive health
Reproductive epidemiologist Shanna Swan publishes book discussing link between declining sperm count and chemical pollution; describes observed changes in sexual development, effect on long-term health; offers advice on how to protect oneself and unborn life from chemical exposure; upcoming webinar scheduled for February 23, 2021
US states continue to develop local PFAS regulations
Maryland bans intentionally added PFAS in paper and board packaging, disposable plastic gloves by January 2024; Washington State accelerates PFAS Chemical Action Plan, Department of Ecology reported to be hiring more staff to undertake the accelerated timeline; Washingtonians say food related products should be main concern of state’s Safer Products for Washington Program; Vermont considers banning bisphenols in food packaging
EFSA publishes draft BPA opinion, part I
EFSA opens draft scientific opinion on BPA exposure for consultation, exposure lower than previously estimated
EFSA publishes draft BPA opinion, part II
EFSA launches public consultation on BPA risk assessment opinion; recommends lowering of TDI; exposure levels considered safe
FDA approves fluoropolymer additive for use in FCMs
Oil, grease and water resistance additive Cartaguard® KST approved for use in paper and board packaging
EFSA: Evidence use in scientific assessments
EFSA survey identifies authority’s methodological needs for use of scientific evidence in its assessments as part of PROMETHEUS project
PEF: New food contact polymer on the horizon
Polyethylene furanoate (PEF) set to take PET market share, approval for food contact use pending