Nine of the UK’s largest supermarket chains have announced a “Statement of Intent” to explore reusable packaging across physical stores and online channels. Supported by WRAP and governments from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, this initiative aims to significantly reduce single-use packaging. Coalition of Major Retailers Taking Action The partnership involves Aldi, Asda, Co‑op, Lidl…
Switzerland is strengthening its chemical safety rules for food contact materials (FCMs) and articles to match stricter European Union standards. On June 2, 2025, the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) issued RO 2025 395 to amend the nation’s Food Contact Materials Ordinance (RS/SR 817.023.21). The updated measures took effect on July 1, 2025.…
In our previous article, we outlined Japan’s introduction of a Positive List (PL) system for food contact materials (FCMs) under the Food Sanitation Act. As the official enforcement date of June 1, 2025 passed, Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) released crucial updates clarifying final procedures, exemptions, and a phased transition period. Positive List: Finalized Substances and…
The European Union continues to push for safer chemicals by placing new restrictions on two commonly used industrial solvents and expanding its Candidate List of hazardous substances. Companies across Europe now face tighter rules under REACH, the EU’s chemical safety law, that aim to protect workers, consumers, and the environment. Stricter Controls for DMAC…
In a recent publication by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), concerns surrounding the safety of PET bottles were addressed in detail. The report tackled common consumer questions regarding potential health risks posed by these containers, particularly focusing on hormonal effects, chemical migration, and taste alterations in bottled beverages. Assessing the Hormonal…
Our laboratory has officially expanded its accredited methods for chemical and mechanical testing, reinforcing our commitment to quality, compliance, and customer confidence. We are now accredited for a broader and more advanced range of metal determination techniques. These include the specific migration, total content, and extractable content of critical elements in packaging materials, crucial for…
A recent study by consultancy group Bain & Company underscores the transformative potential of chemical recycling in reshaping the plastics industry. Despite its current limitations, the sector is viewed as a key driver for reducing plastic waste and lessening dependence on virgin materials—if adequate investment and policy backing are secured. A Newcomer Industry Held…
The European Commission’s 2025 Single Market Strategy introduces significant reforms aimed at harmonizing packaging regulations across the European Union. By standardizing rules and embracing digital solutions, the strategy seeks to eliminate trade barriers, streamline compliance, and foster sustainability within the packaging sector. Standardizing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Across Member States A central component of…
The British Plastics Federation (BPF) is calling on manufacturers and businesses in the plastics sector to report any instances of false claims related to recycled content in plastic packaging. This move aims to protect legitimate players in the market and uphold the credibility of the UK’s Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), introduced in 2022 to encourage…
Since its publication in the Official Journal on 22 January 2025, Regulation (EU) 2025/40 (“PPWR”) has set a clear, phased timeline to transform packaging across the EU into sustainable, circular‐economy–friendly materials. From strict chemical limits and the first reusable packaging standards to binding recycled‐content requirements and “recycled at scale” targets, the PPWR charts a path from 12 August 2026 through 2035.…
On 31 December 2024, the State Secretary for Health, Welfare and Sport of the Dutch Government, enacted a ministerial regulation, modifying the Commodities Act Regulation on Packaging and Utensils (Warenwetregeling verpakkingen en gebruiksartikelen). This update implements the Benelux Committee of Ministers’ decision on metals and alloys intended for contact with foodstuffs (M (2022) 12) and…
Plastic pellets — tiny raw materials used in plastic production — are among the main sources of microplastic pollution. The European Union has taken a major step to tackle this issue through a provisional agreement between the Council and the European Parliament. The goal is to minimize pellet losses throughout the supply chain and reduce…