Nestlé researchers publish new study showing analytical method permitting identification of the NIAS nonylphenol
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
Migration of styrene oligomers into food
German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment evaluates migration of styrene oligomers from FCMs into food simulants; finds no evidence for health risks at currently measured migration levels
Alternative plasticizer approved by EPA
Non-ortho-phthalate plasticizer listed as Safer Choice chemical, approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency
Nanoclay migration from FCM
Study investigates nanoclay migration from commercialized nanoclay-LDPE food bags; aluminum migrates in both dissolved and nanoparticle forms; also particles of assumed plastic origin found
Draft Chinese FCM adhesives standard
Chinese National Centre for Food Safety Risk Assessment publishes draft standard for adhesives used in food contact materials; includes positive list of base polymers, maximum use amount, migration limits; public consultation open until July 20, 2019
Japan revises positive list for FCMs
Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare publishes revised version of positive list for food contact materials (FCMs); applies to utensils, containers, and packaging made of synthetic resins; 83 substances added to the list of plastic polymers, 192 to coatings, 29 to monomers, and 121 to additives
RIVM publishes risk assessment of aluminum
Assessment performed by Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) finds total human exposure through food, consumer products, and soil far below weekly health guidance value
Brominated flame retardants in European food contact materials
Black thermocups and kitchen utensils contaminated with brominated flame retardants from illicit recycling practices
EU authorizes new substance in plastic FCMs
European Commission amends EU 10/2011 regulation on plastic food contact materials, authorizes use of poly((R)-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-(R)-3-hydroxyhexanoate) for contact with dry or solid foods