International Chemical Secretariat states that SIN List is ‘more relevant’ than REACH Candidate List for companies looking to identify chemicals to substitute; exposes ECHA’s insufficient focus on ‘non-registered’ substances, lack of progress on ‘already tackled’ substances
EDC criteria: Recent meetings
DG SANTE publishes summaries of recent meetings concerning the proposed EDC identification criteria; asks EFSA and ECHA to develop a harmonized guidance document for the implementation of EDC criteria
Workshop on US federal PFAS research
US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine workshop on October 26-27, 2020 to focus on ongoing research and identify gaps related to impacts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on human health; registration is free and open to the public
Amendment to EU plastic FCM regulation
European Commission publishes 6th amendment to plastic FCM regulation; changes for 6 substances and inclusion of 10 new substances in Union List; new specific migration limits for aluminum and zinc; food simulants and compliance testing specified
EFSA’s work on endocrine disrupters is ongoing
EFSA gives update on their work on endocrine active substances and non-monotonic dose response; following up their Scientific Opinion of 2013
Overview reports on EDCs in the environment
International Panel on Chemical Pollution and UN Environment release 3 overview reports on global initiatives to identify endocrine disruptors, environmental exposures and effects, existing regulatory frameworks
Reusable food packaging and novel coronavirus
UPSTREAM encourages consumers to continue using reusable items with regular washing using soap, expects zero-waste efforts and bring-your-own container programs to further gain momentum after pandemic ends; expanded business models needed to promote sanitizing and reusing packaging
Vote on EDC criteria scheduled
Next meeting of EU Commission and Member States on revised criteria to identify endocrine disrupters to take place on May 17-18, 2017; vote foreseen despite persisting concerns
Public consultation on 9 new SVHCs
ECHA opens public consultation on proposals for 9 substances of very high concern, including BPA as environmental endocrine disruptor; deadline for comments is October 20, 2017
Recent innovations in packaging
Companies present paper-based packaging for alcoholic beverages, multipack cans; new designs and materials for better recyclability; more products reported to use 100% recycled plastics