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
Replacing BPA can coatings
Del Monte Foods switches to non-BPA food can linings in the course of 2016
Obesity and chemicals
Scientists analyze NHANES data from 1971-2008, find changing relationship between caloric intake, physical activity, and obesity; suggest additional factors, such as chemical exposure, may contribute to obesity epidemic
Game launched to inform about impacts of food choices
The Lexicon develops online game to bring awareness about personal food choices on health, environment, and culture; supporting resource articles provide insights from experts into developing sustainable diets, dietary guidelines, and making choices about the food we eat
Review on neurotoxic potential of phthalates
Canadian researchers review research on effects of phthalates on brain structure and function
BPA found in human fetal livers, slower BPA metabolism in fetuses suggested
Researchers find free and conjugated BPA in human fetal livers from voluntary early pregnancy terminations confirming an earlier finding. Presented data is suggestive of a slower metabolism in fetuses relative to adults, however based on a limited reference group size.
Coronavirus and Packaging
CorOnavirus & Packaging During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Food Packaging Forum helps to gather, summarize, and communicate relevant information related to food packaging and human health Overview The spread of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has had impacts across all sectors. As health authorities and scientists around the world work towards identifying solutions to bring the situation under control, the Food Packaging Forum is monitoring the situation closely. This page serves as a resource providing an overview of relevant scientific studies, […]
Study finds plant-based straws containing PFAS
Article published in peer-reviewed journal Chemosphere analyzes biodegradable paper straws for presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); tests 38 products, finds PFAS in 36, most frequently detects perfluorobutanoic acid, perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorohexanoic acid; challenges claim of biodegradability of plant-based straws
BPA and hyperactivity in children
New study finds association between higher urinary BPA levels and prevalence of ADHD in U.S. children
Science and statecraft at the second Plastics Treaty negotiation
Diplomats from across the globe descended on Paris, France to continue developing the UN treaty on plastics pollution; Scientist’s Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty members spoke to delegates from every continent, representing 33% of the world’s population; UN secretariat will develop INC-2 synthesis report, create zero draft by INC-3; elements for intersessional work can be submitted until August 15, 2023; INC-3 in Nairobi, Kenya in November 2023