Two studies analyzed ultra-processed foods for phthalates and microplastics; report that consumption of ultra-processed foods and fast food during pregnancy increases exposure to phthalates; link lower socioeconomic status to increased ultra-processed food consumption and phthalate exposure; find highly-processed protein products in the US to contain significantly more microplastics than minimally-processed products; hypothesize plastic processing equipment to be one main source
Obesity and chemicals
Scientists analyze NHANES data from 1971-2008, find changing relationship between caloric intake, physical activity, and obesity; suggest additional factors, such as chemical exposure, may contribute to obesity epidemic
Diabetes and obesity increasing globally
New York Times reports on new study showing significant increase in global diabetes and obesity rates
Prolonged exposure to BPA after dermal contact
Scientists show uptake and elimination of bisphenol A after dermal contact are slower than after ingestion; findings suggest higher steady state levels after repeated dermal exposures
Report outlines how plastic production harms human health, environment, economy
Minderoo-Monaco Commission on Plastics and Human Health publishes extensive report summarizing plastics’ effects across life cycle on human health, environment, and the economy; health effects cost society hundreds of billions every year; report includes actions for “governments and industries to minimize the negative consequences of global plastic contamination”
Searching for safer plasticizers
Scientists evaluate a panel of novel plasticizers for in vitro effects on testicular function; propose alternatives to phthalates
Review on neurotoxic potential of phthalates
Canadian researchers review research on effects of phthalates on brain structure and function
Autistic features linked to prenatal exposure to EDC mixture
Research on mixture toxicity of phthalates and polybrominated diphenyl ethers presented at Endocrine’s Society annual meeting
Coronavirus and Packaging
CorOnavirus & Packaging During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Food Packaging Forum helps to gather, summarize, and communicate relevant information related to food packaging and human health Overview The spread of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has had impacts across all sectors. As health authorities and scientists around the world work towards identifying solutions to bring the situation under control, the Food Packaging Forum is monitoring the situation closely. This page serves as a resource providing an overview of relevant scientific studies, […]
Study finds plant-based straws containing PFAS
Article published in peer-reviewed journal Chemosphere analyzes biodegradable paper straws for presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); tests 38 products, finds PFAS in 36, most frequently detects perfluorobutanoic acid, perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorohexanoic acid; challenges claim of biodegradability of plant-based straws