Topics
microplastics
July 29, 2026
Using epidemiological data of 136,982 adults, scientists examine association between occupational airborne micro- and nanoplastic (MNP) exposure and respiratory health outcomes; find occupational exposure to be associated with reduced lung function and increased odds of respiratory symptoms
Topics: microplastics
Reading time: 2 minutes
June 25, 2026
U.S. researchers and health professionals outline current evidence for childhood exposure to toxic chemicals from plastics, micro- and nanoplastics; highlight plastic-associated neurodevelopmental conditions as “a significant public health concern”; call for policy action to limit exposure to plastic-associated toxic chemicals, especially among children
Reading time: 2 minutes
June 12, 2026
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) publishes draft contaminant list that may require regulation under the Safe Drinking Water Act; list also covers microplastics; Food Packaging Forum (FPF) comments that measures to reduce microplastic exposure must begin now
Topics: microplastics, USA
Reading time: 2 minutes
June 8, 2026
Nature Health study assesses over 100 brain samples for micro- and nanoplastic presence, their exact location, and potential entry pathways; particles present in almost all samples; disrupted blood-brain barrier suggested to facilitate particle entry into brain
Topics: human health, microplastics
Reading time: 2 minutes
May 25, 2026
Greenpeace International-commissioned study finds microplastic and chemical contamination in baby food packaged in flexible pouches from Nestlé and Danone; detects plastic-associated hormone disruptor and potential obesogen in purees; calls on Gerber and U.S. Government to act
Reading time: 4 minutes
May 4, 2026
In a commentary, The Lancet Countdown on Health and Plastics outlines the multiple harms of plastic, including micro- and nanoplastics; describes necessary interventions and tracking of measures over time; explains why constructive debate is essential for advancing the science
Reading time: 2 minutes
April 27, 2026
Report from Plastic Soup Foundation reviews scientific literature on microplastics; highlights sources in five consumer product categories, including food; shares FCMiNo as searchable resource for evidence on microplastics in food from food contact articles; describes challenges with quality of scientific studies; asserts need for action
Topics: food packaging, microplastics
Reading time: 3 minutes
April 23, 2026
New report estimates the global burden of micro- and nanoplastics in food attributable to plastic packaging; estimate 131 mg per person annually; PET bottles, and rigid PET and polyethylene containers the greatest sources
Topics: microplastics
Reading time: 3 minutes
April 21, 2026
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s Human Foods Program publishes list of research, data, and methods needs; highlights knowledge gaps for food contact chemicals; includes PFAS, microplastics, and nanoparticles; Program receives $109 million increase in funding from US government
Reading time: 3 minutes
April 6, 2026
Food Packaging Forum (FPF) submits comment to Parliament of Australia consultation on the effects of microplastics, “toxics,” and “forever chemicals” (PFAS) on human health from fetal development through adulthood; FPF-involved research projects AURORA and CUSP highly relevant
Reading time: 3 minutes