Packaging food safety concerns include the materials of construction for packaging and all food contact surfaces, as well as the labeling information on the packaging.
Minnesota Senator Heather Gustafson has introduced SF 188, a bill that would require manufacturers of packaged foods to test their products for phthalates and disclose the results online.
FDA has released four new guidance documents to help industry comply with food labeling regulations concerning allergens and plant-based alternatives to animal foods, as well as food safety regulations for ready-to-eat (RTE), low-moisture foods.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that January 1, 2028 will be the uniform compliance date for all final food labeling regulations published between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2026.
To meet the need for sustainable alternatives for food packaging, researchers from Chungnam National University have developed an edible, natural coating that extends the shelf life of fruits.
Earthjustice sued FDA on behalf of consumer advocates that previously petitioned FDA to revoke food contact authorizations for 28 phthalates, and were denied. Although FDA since revoked authorizations for many of those phthalates and says the rest are under review, the plaintiffs hope their lawsuit will force a long-overdue safety reassessment.
On December 19, the European Commission officially adopted a sweeping ban on the use of Bisphenol A (BPA), as well as some other bisphenols considered harmful, in all food contact materials. Industry will be allowed an 18-month transition period.
Researchers have estimated a global economic cost of $1.5 trillion per year associated with three toxic chemicals commonly found in plastics and food contact materials—BPA, DEHP, and PBDEs—due to premature deaths, chronic diseases, and lower IQs.
Penn State Extension is offering a new online course to teach participants about the key elements and impact of food packaging. A continuing education unit is available upon completion of the course.
A report by the European Court of Auditors has identified “notable gaps” in the EU legal framework around food labeling and enforcement of regulations, and offered recommendations for improvement.
Companies W-Cycle Ltd. and Melhoramentos have joined forces to produce compostable food packaging made from renewable materials that naturally decompose within 100 days.
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