Scientists highlight BPA’s interactions with multiple molecular targets besides estrogen receptor; growing body of evidence demonstrates similar pleiotropic actions of BPA substitutes such as BPS, BPF, BPAF and others
Microplastics can lead to behavioral changes in mice
Scientists find polystyrene microplastics reduce cell viability, translocate in the body, modify mice behavior, and change their liver and brain immune markers after short-term exposure; effects potentially age-dependent; two reviews summarize nano- and microplastic impacts on fertility and potential implications
11th amendment to EU plastic FCM regulation
EU Commission publishes 11th amendment to plastic FCM regulation, authorizes 2 new food contact substances, changes specific migration limits for 2 existing Union List substances
EFSA assesses new plasticizer for PVC
European Food Safety Authority’s CEP Panel finds trimellitic acid, tris(2-ehtylhexyl) ester safe for use as plasticizer in soft PVC for making single-use wrap films or repeated use tubing
Mapping microplastics in the male reproductive system
Study provides an in-depth look at microplastics in the male reproductive system, analyzes human and mouse samples to chart concentrations and polymer types; finds microplastics in all human testes samples and majority of semen samples; larger plastic particles may get trapped in testis, leading to higher concentrations; identifies correlation between urbanization, home-cooked meals, and body scrub used to microplastics concentration
Japan updates list of substances allowed for food contact articles
Draft introduces new definitions of polymers; revises usage allowances for some substances
Food Packaging Forum 11th Annual Workshop
Circular Economy Forum
Understanding the chemical regulatory system better in order to reform TSCA
House subcommittee hosts hearing on TSCA reform, ACC comments
Bulk food in supermarkets: growth and challenges
Article by Civil Eats discusses the rise of bulk food dispensers in grocery stores to reduce food packaging and challenges they face; presents initiatives from larger chains including re-use of customers’ containers; addresses food safety concerns, need for educating consumers