U.S. restaurant chain Chipotle issues statement following study finding per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS) in its biodegradable packaging; stricter total fluorine limits set for compostability certificate
Dispute over latest SVHC entry of BPA
Industry groups say the latest decision to identify BPA as SVHC for endocrine disruption effects in the environment is ‘disproportionate’ and lacks regulatory value; ECHA comments that this entry will impact the scope of the authorization requirement
Label for non-toxic products
Non-profit organization Made Safe launches consumer labels to certify products that are made with safe ingredients
China criticized for screening packaged foods for coronavirus
China finds coronavirus on food packaging from 20 countries, restricts the import of food products, does not share lab results; attracts criticism from trade partners that demand end to restriction, more information on used testing methods; World Trade Organization (WTO) meeting to reconcile conflict not successful
Facts and figures on BPA
Dutch Institute for Public Health and the Environment summarizes current knowledge on BPA; to inform decision on risk reduction measures
Concern over data gaps for fluorotelomers
Feature article by Chemical Watch reviews ongoing scientific and regulatory discussions concerning uncertainties and data gaps to describe presence and toxicity of fluorotelomer breakdown products; widespread use in food packaging increasing scrutiny of the issue
EFSA updates HBCDDs risk assessment
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) publishes update on risk assessment of hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDDs); results support conclusion that dietary exposure in EU not a health concern except for breastfed children; panel will consider mixture approach once risk assessments of all groups of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) updated
Studies investigate circular economy barriers, consumer perceptions
Recent set of articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals review current barriers in flexible plastics to achieving circular economy, recommends regulatory policies be tailored to individual steps in supply chain; consumers easily confused by plastic waste management system, recycling processes, biodegradability claims; researchers instead propose food system shift towards decentralization, shorter supply chains
Guidance for risk assessment of FCMs
EFSA’s proposal for new exposure estimates and next steps explained during 2nd International Conference on Food & Beverage Packaging in Rome
Screw caps a source of microplastics
Scientists find increased release of microplastic particles after repeated open/close cycles in screw-cap plastic bottles, no release from bottle walls; call for more research on degradation of food contact plastics