UK supermarket chain Tesco aims to ban non-recyclable plastic packaging by 2019, move towards closed loop system
More action on phthalates needed
CHEM Trust discusses adverse health effects of phthalates exposure, calls for further restrictions especially in food contact materials
Study finds microplastics harm immune cells
Researchers at University Medical Center Utrecht observe that immune cell death rate triples after contact with microplastics; presents results at Plastic Health Summit in Amsterdam on October 3, 2019
Canada proposes grouping BPA analogues, alternatives
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Health Canada (HC) propose grouping 343 bisphenol A (BPA) structural analogues and functional alternatives under Chemicals Management Plan; request feedback on selection method and grouping until February 17, 2021
BPA in various food products
Environmental Working Group launches database with over 16,000 food products possibly in contact with BPA-containing food packaging
Recycling of black plastics
UK plastics producer, retailers, recycler collaborate to recycle black PET trays from mixed waste household collection into new food grade packaging
New website on plastics and health
Plastic Health Coalition sets to accelerate collection and communication of knowledge on plastics and their health effects
EFSA evaluates 3 PET recycling processes
EFSA’s CEF Panel considers recycling processes of post-consumer PET safe for all types of foodstuffs except packaged water
EU Council adopts single-use plastic bans
European Council formally adopts new rules on single-use plastics and recycling targets; directive completes final step before becoming law; England to ban plastic straws, stirrers, and cotton buds from April 2020
Bioassays can help to develop safer food packaging
In vitro study assesses hormonal activity of leachates from bio-based polymers used in food packaging; demonstrates integration of toxicity testing in packaging development can help reduce toxicity and design safer bio-based packaging