On October 14, 2020, online magazine Packaging Europe reported on the development of a mechanical recycling process for polystyrene plastic intended for food contact applications. Led by Styrenics Circular Solutions (SCS) together with the Frauenhofer Institute, the process has recently passed a set of challenge tests used to determine the ability of the technology to remove impurities in the waste stream. The recycling process will now be submitted to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for review. If approved, it would become the first recycling process approved for polystyrene use in food contact materials and articles.
Jens Kathmann from SCS commented that “this is a huge milestone in styrenics’ contribution to the circular economy. Recycled polystyrene of food-grade quality combines all the well-known application, processing, and environmental advantages of polystyrene, with the added value of being a fully circular polymer.”
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Packaging Europe (October 14, 2020). “Styrenics Circular Solutions demonstrates suitability of mechanically recycled polystyrene for food contact.”
