Chemical Control

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A literature review conducted by Greenpeace concluded that heating food in plastic packaging—even ready-to-heat meals labeled as “microwave-safe” or “oven-safe”—may significantly increase the migration of microplastics and chemical additives into food.

The researchers positioned the machine learning model as a low-cost complement to traditional testing workflows, helping dairy processors enhance food safety while targeting laboratory resources.

Of the 111 “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS) additives identified by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), 49 are known to be widely used by food manufacturers.

However, concerning levels of arsenic and lead were detected in some products, and Consumer Reports is therefore urging FDA to set limits for these metals in infant formula. PFAS were also found in more than a quarter of products.

This episode of Food Safety Five discusses expert perspectives on the Healthy Florida First food contaminant testing program, including information gaps about the testing and risk assessment methodology and why this missing information matters.

Incorporating a novel “bio-fumigation” method based on a natural compound produced by mustard plants, the micro-malting machine effectively addresses mycotoxins while preserving quality. USDA is working with industry to scale the prototype for widespread adoption.

With the goal of supporting stronger risk assessments to address emerging food chemical risks, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reviewed existing data sources; data gaps and challenges; and recommendations for improving data availability, quality, and interoperability.

The first set of results focuses on acrylamide and certain toxic heavy metals. Although the levels of some contaminants in food are decreasing overall, the population's exposure still remains concerningly high.

EPA repealed Biden-era amendments that had tightened emissions regulations under the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) rule. Critics warn that this decision could lead to greater bioaccumulation of the neurotoxin methylmercury in fish, increasing human dietary exposure.

AB 2034 aims to tighten oversight of ingredients used in foods sold in the state that have entered the food supply without a formal FDA safety review through the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) process.