China seeks input on updated FCM safety standards

The Chinese National Health Commission published two draft proposals for food contact material (FCM) safety standards; focus on general safety standards and silicone rubber FCMs; public consultation open until December 15

FPF comments on FCCs under review for REACH Candidate List

European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is reviewing five food contact chemicals (FCCs) for possible inclusion on the REACH Candidate List of SVHCs; Food Packaging Forum (FPF) shares information on where the FCCs have been measured in food contact; two are on the EU positive list for chemicals in plastic food contact materials; FCCs under consideration for SVHC status and allowed in FCMs highlights need to create stronger connection between FCM regulation and REACH

Survey shows European consumers lack information about food contact articles

European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) surveys EU consumers on experience, knowledge, and attitude on food packaging; consumers feel under informed; 90% of consumers support stricter rules to prevent health effects; recommends overhaul of EU food contact policies

New EU rules on FCMs must be science based, simpler, and enforced

Food Packaging Forum comments on European Commission’s public consultation on its revision of EU rules on food contact materials (FCMs); stresses the importance of revising the definition of safety and aligning FCM regulations with EU strategies on chemical sustainability and circular economy

China requesting comments for five FCCs

China requests comments for five new food contact chemicals (FCCs); includes two additives, three polymer resins; consultation open until May 13, 2021

Tanzania proposes heavy metal limits in FCMs

Tanzania’s Bureau of Standards proposes limits for heavy metals, total aromatic amines in food contact materials (FCMs); notifies World Trade Organization (WTO) of positive list for colorants and dyes; adoption set for July 2021, becomes effective January 2022

US FDA adds seven new substances to FCS inventory

US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) adds seven new entries to its Inventory of Effective Food Contact Substance (FCS) Notifications

EC considers full revision of existing FCM legislation

European Commission (EC) policy officer discusses benefits of revising Article 3 of existing food contact material (FCM) Regulation 1935/2004, suggests this would ensure ‘future-proof’ legislation; alternative approaches being considered based on amending existing legislation; considers fee for chemical assessment and market surveillance

Krebsliga hosts Environment and Cancer Forum

Krebsliga (Swiss Cancer League) forum discusses interaction of environmental factors and cancer; brings together experts from academia, non-governmental organizations, and industry; addressed topics including endocrine disruptors, migration, risks posed by chemical mixtures

China modifies standard on inks used in FCMs

China modifies draft standard for inks used on composite food contact materials and articles; specifies safety requirements, basic requirements, limits on impurities and migration; provides requirements for labelling of inks