Scientists assess styrene levels in polystyrene food packaging, migration into refrigerated dairy products, in 50% ethanol, as well as factors influencing migration; report styrene migration of 5 to 30 µg/kg food at the best before date; find food contact area, temperature and time rather than fat content influence styrene migration
Hazard assessment of FCM extracts
Scientists review studies on the use of select bioassays to assess hazard of food contact materials; bioassays considered a useful addition to targeted chemical analysis, especially in the assessment of finished materials and articles
Avoiding regrettable substitutions
History of green chemistry discussed in The Guardian; experts call for informed strategies for removing classes of hazardous chemicals from consumer products
Microplastics impact oyster fertility
New study finds micro-polystyrene to disrupt feeding pattern and reproduction in oysters; exposed molluscs had fewer and more slowly growing offspring
Microplastics in fish
New study finds synthetic textile fibers and plastic debris in the guts of fish intended for human consumption
Phthalates reduce neuron numbers in developing brain
Rats perinatally exposed to phthalates show lower number of neurons and synapses in the brain, decreased cognitive flexibility
BPA and BPS impair fertility
New study shows that BPA and substitute BPS disrupt reproduction of roundworms causing germline apoptosis and embryonic lethality
Experts declare FCM substance a likely carcinogen
US National Toxicology Panel revises draft Reports of Carcinogens, food contact substance pentachlorophenol status lowered to likely human carcinogen
BPA in developing countries
Scientists review BPA exposure and regulation in developing countries; exposure comparable to developed countries; no BPA regulation in most developing countries
US NGOs: FDA must reassess safety of BPA
US scientists, public health and environmental organizations submit formal petition to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requesting it to restrict or remove current bisphenol A approvals for use in food packaging; cite new scientific evidence showing safe exposure level 5,000-times below FDA’s current limit