CARBIOS Active, an enzymatic solution for 100 percent compostable polylactic acid (PLA) packaging, has been added to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Inventory of Effective Food Contact Substances.

The European Parliament and Council have reached a provisional agreement on the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which, if ratified, would require all packaging used in the EU to be recyclable, set restrictions on plastic packaging, and ban the use of toxic PFAS in food contact packaging.

States like California have been active in the past few years passing laws to regulate PFAS in products. So far, 12 states have enacted laws that ban or impose reporting or disclosure requirements for PFAS in products. As states continue to move forward with emerging PFAS product restrictions, those who manufacture, distribute, and sell such products must prepare for the changing legal landscape.

FDA has announced that, thanks to voluntary phase-out by industry, toxic PFAS are no longer being sold by manufacturers for use in food-contact grease-proofing agents in the U.S. FDA also said it is working towards a validated analytical method that would enable the agency to monitor the market for PFAS in food packaging.

Hottinger Brüel and Kjær has launched its latest innovation in weighing—the FIT5X digital load cell for filling/dosing machines—which is designed to revolutionize packaging process control.

Film manufacturer for the food industry, SÜDPACK, has acquired a majority stake in CARBOLIQ, an advanced thermochemical process known as direct oiling

With each passing year, new and emerging technologies and techniques that have promise for advancing food safety are developed and validated. This article summarizes the top food safety innovations of 2023, based on audience interest. 

SÜDPACK has enhanced its flexible food packaging films for thermoforming applications, such as for fishery products. The new Multifol Extreme combines maximum functionality and lightweight efficiency.

Brands, retailers, and post-consumer package handlers are focused on adding value with PFAS-free packaging. This article discusses how PFAS alternatives are gaining prominence, with PFAS-free packaging entering the food packaging industry ahead of schedule.

The added microbial risks that come with eating more plant-based foods can usually be mitigated by adjusting recipes or process parameters, although hazard considerations regarding the chemical safety of a diet richer in plant-based materials is more complex. Also, introducing reusable packaging may come with its own set of issues.