Smithers Pira’s annual conference on “Plastics & paper in contact with foodstuffs” covers regulatory updates, summarizes industry initiatives, discusses future developments
New research institute for packaging
Nestlé launches Institute of Packaging Sciences to advance development of ‘functional, safe and environmentally friendly’ food packaging
EFSA plastics recycling working group: 2nd meeting
EFSA’s CEP Panel working group on recycling plastics holds 2nd meeting; minutes now available online
Guidelines for designing recyclable PET trays
Petcore Europe and Plastics Recyclers Europe issue industry guidelines for designing PET trays that can be recycled back into food contact applications
EFSA assesses ‘RecyPET Hungária’ recycling process
EFSA’s CEP Panel considers recycling process ‘RecyPET Hungária’ insufficiently characterized with regard to decontamination efficiency to produce safe recycled PET
Workshop on environmental impact of plastic packaging
Euractiv workshop explored opportunities and challenges in developing eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastic food packaging; summary video available online
More toxic chemicals in recycled plastics products
Environmental NGOs find brominated dioxins in children’s toys, highlight need to avoid recycling of materials containing hazardous chemicals
Germany to tackle plastic waste
German Environment Ministry presents 5-point plan to limit plastic waste, suggests measures to reduce plastic consumption, increase recycling, clean up environment
JRC informs about chemicals in food packaging
EU Joint Research Centre highlights Commission’s efforts in ensuring safety of food contact materials in new 2-page document
No higher limit for PBDEs in recycled plastics
EU Parliament adopts POPs Regulation Recast but rejects amendment to increase maximum concentration limit for persistent organic pollutants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers in recycled plastics