Scientists discuss the use of nanoparticles in food packaging materials, focusing on gaps in knowledge on their migration, toxicity, influence on biopolymer degradability
Oligomers in PEF polyester
Scientists find ‘abundant’ oligomers in polyethylene furanoate, identify 20 circular and linear oligomer species sized <1000 Da; exact quantities of migrating oligomers to be determined in future investigations
Stakeholders comment on EFSA’s BPA risk assessment
EFSA invites BPA stakeholders for discussion of scientific opinions on risk assessment of BPA; stakeholders from national agencies, NGOs, industry, academia comment
Oligomers in biodegradable food packaging
Study of non-volatile components of biodegradable polyester and polylactic acid blend identifies 37 different compounds including plasticizers and oligomers, some seen only in migration experiments
EDCs and manufacturing doubt
Prominent EDC researchers publish rebuttal to critique of WHO/UNEP State of the Science 2012 report, accuse industry-funded scientists to deliberately confuse non-experts to delay regulatory action
EFSA evaluates fluorinated comonomer for use in FCMs
EFSA’s CEF Panel considers 2,3,3,4,4,5,5-heptafluoro-1-pentene safe for use in food contact materials under certain conditions
Study linking BPA to systemic complications causes heated debate
Study links BPA metabolite to biomarker of systemic stress and infers an association with chronic diseases
Printing ink compounds detected in foods
UK survey finds eight different printing ink chemicals in food samples as well as their packaging
Global commitment to tackle plastic pollution
Ellen MacArthur Foundation initiates New Plastics Economy Global Commitment to stop plastic pollution at source; 290+ organizations pledge to eliminate, innovate, circulate plastic packaging
Companies want protective EDC criteria
IKEA, H&M, COOP Denmark and other leading companies urge European Commission to adopt science-based EDC criteria that protect citizens’ health