Plastics Recyclers Europe introduces online tool ‘RecyClass’ to assess recyclability of plastic packaging, aims to combine knowledge of recyclers and packaging producers to improve packaging design for recycling
Full characterization of nanomaterials in food remains difficult
G.I.T. Laboratory Journal Europe reviews state of the art of nanomaterials in FCM
NGOs send letter to ECHA
NGOs accuse ECHA of failing on SVHC authorization, ECHA responds that process continues to be improved
UN: ‘Beat plastic pollution’
New report by UN Environment reviews global state of plastic pollution and counteracting measures, provides policy recommendations to reduce single-use plastics and improve waste management
Anses reviews use of nanomaterials in foods and FCMs
French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (Anses) publishes review on presence of engineered nanomaterials in food and food packaging; identifies set of primary uses and substances
Review analyzes link between ortho-phthalates and ADHD
Targeting Environmental Neuro-Development Risks (TENDR) project publishes review in American Journal of Public Health analyzing link between ortho-phthalate exposure and impaired neurodevelopment, behavioral disorders such as ADHD; authors call for strong governmental and cooperative action, recommend reducing phthalate exposure from e.g. diet, medical equipment, personal care products
MERCOSUR publishes draft silicone FCM regulation
South American trade bloc MERCOSUR is updating its standards for silicone food contact materials; includes positive lists and specific migration limits for metal salts; stakeholders can comment on the draft until May 12, 2023; Argentina and Uruguay have already notified the World Trade Organization of impending changes
ECHA conference and Helsinki Chemicals Forum
European Chemicals Agency hosts conference on current priorities for chemical regulations in the EU; annual international forum hosts multi-stakeholder discussions on risk management options, chemical grouping, plastics and circularity, and access to data
New York restaurants oppose ban on plastic foam food packaging
Petition launched by New York City restaurants to reverse ban on plastic foam food packaging; Restaurant Action Alliance and packaging manufacturer sue the city over ban
Ubiquitous exposure to phenolic food contact substances
New study investigates phenolic compounds in pregnant women, finds phenols in more than 90% of specimens, specific phenol exposure may depend on ethnic group