Sources of PFASs exposure in humans

Scientists examine associations between exposure factors and levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in humans; compare several methods of dietary exposure assessment; food contact articles significantly contributed to PFASs intakes

Plastics additives in marine environment

Scientists review occurrence and effects of plastics additives in marine environment; focus on brominated flame retardants, nonylphenols, bisphenol A, antioxidants

Children significantly exposed to EDCs and neurotoxins

Danish EPA assesses risk of young and unborn children’s exposure to endocrine disruptors and neurotoxins; phthalates, bisphenol A, and lead identified among most critical substances

Better protection of children from toxics needed

Opinion article in New York Times outlines children’s prenatal exposure to various toxic chemicals, discusses impact on fetal brain development and health consequences

EFSA guidance on substances in infant food

EFSA issues new guidance on the risk assessment of substances in food intended for infants younger than 16 weeks; guidance applies from now on to EFSA food safety assessments

ANSES opinion: Mineral oils in paper and board FCMs

French food safety agency recommends reducing consumer exposure to mineral oils; suggests using MOAH-free printing inks, glues, additives, processing aids in paper and board food packaging but also printed media entering the recycling stream; proposes use of functional barriers

New inventory of plastic additives

ECHA and Cefic work on generating inventory of plastic additives; release expected by end of summer 2017

Walmart continues reducing problematic substances

U.S. retailer Walmart further reduces use of 8 high priority chemicals in its products; NGOs welcome progress

Podcast on plasticizers and fast food

Environmental Defense Fund podcast discusses scientific study showing link between high fast food consumption and increased urinary phthalate levels

New version of FACET published

EU Commission’s Joint Research Centre releases updated version of FACET software enabling exposure estimations for food contact materials; free download available