Researchers recently conducted sampling and analysis of common vegetable oils from Italy and Spain, packaged in both glass and plastic bottles, to determine the presence of microplastics. Microplastics were found in every sample tested, regardless of packaging.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Inspection Service (USDA’s FSIS) has published an updated FSIS Guideline for Residue Prevention, replacing the 2013 version.

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has expanded fish consumption advisories based on the results of ongoing testing for per- and polyfluroalkyl substances (PFAS) in bodies of water across the state.

A recent study of canned tuna packed in oil and sold in Europe revealed toxic chemicals bisphenol A (BPA) and/or glycidol in all of the analyzed tuna products. Mercury and 3-MCPD were not found at levels high enough to cause concern.

Approximately half of raw chicken sold at Lidl stores across five European countries are contaminated with antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens, according to the findings of a recent sampling and testing project commissioned by Essere Animali.

Researchers from Tulane University assessed the levels and risks of toxic metals in chocolates sold in the U.S., made from beans originating from different global regions.

So far, 12 severe cases of illness, including seizures, have been linked to the consumption of Diamond Shruumz brand mushroom-based chocolates and candies. The products are marketed as way to “microdose” (implying a drug-like effect), but also claim not to contain psychedelic substances.

An EU Member States expert committee has voted in support of a European Commission proposal to ban some bisphenols, including bisphenol A (BPA), in food contact materials.

An expert report commissioned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) weighed the nutritional benefits of seafood consumption against the health risk of dietary exposure to contaminants in seafood, with special consideration to childhood growth and development. 

According to the latest California Pesticide Residue Monitoring Annual Report from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR), 97 percent of fresh produce samples collected across the state contain no pesticide residues exceeding health-protective thresholds set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).