New study finds BPA to affect sperm quality in couples seeking in vitro fertilization; findings not statistically significant
EU discusses application of mixture assessment factor
Swedish and Dutch governments hold workshop investigating application of a mixture assessment factor for risk assessment under REACH legislation; ask EU member states for feedback, best procedure for way forward
Measuring plastic particles released from food packaging and in human lungs
Scientists investigate plastic particles released from store-bought food packaging as well as human and mice health impacts of exposure; report single-use plastic products release >1012 nano-sized particles during use; find microplastics to suppress lysosomal activity in mouse macrophages; first detection of microplastics within human lung tissue samples; in vitro neurotoxicity study finds microplastics negatively impact human forebrain organoid development
US FDA updates to food contact inventory since August 2022
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) adds 26 new entries to its Inventory of Effective Food Contact Substance Notifications (FCNs) since August 2022
California governor vetoes recycled content bill
Bill AB-792 would have increased the required recycled content of containers in the state to reach 50% by 2030; governor cites concerns about amendments allowing manufacturers to appeal requirement if target not met
BPS affects maternal behavior
Exposure of pregnant and lactating mice to human-exposure-relevant dose of bisphenol S (BPS) impairs maternal behavior, what can lead to lower offspring survival; behavioral effects also seen in daughters of exposed mice
UNEP launches GCO II synthesis report
Synthesis report of the Global Chemicals Outlook released during 4th United Nations Environment Assembly in Nairobi; full report to be released in April 2019
High exposure to perfluorinated compound linked to kidney, testicular cancer in humans
New epidemiological study finds association between high PFOA contamination in drinking water and kidney and testicular cancer, confirming earlier research
EU Parliament comments on EFSA’s independence policy
European Parliament criticizes EFSA’s draft independence policy; calls on EFSA to introduce comprehensive cooling-off period for experts, consider research funding among assessed interests, apply policy consistently to all staff
EUBP panel: Biodegradable plastic’s contribution for climate-neutral economy
15th European Bioplastics (EUBP) conference panel discusses role of biodegradable plastics in achieving climate neutral circular economy, argues application should be limited to waste collection applications; notes many composters still reject plastics, communication and clarification needed