Newsbytes

David Bellm -- Packaging Digest, 8/21/2008

FDA says BPA is safe for food and beverage packaging
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has reaffirmed its previous opinion that bisphenol A (BPA) is safe at the levels generally found in packaged foods. This comes shortly after the European Food Safety Authority came to a similar conclusion about the controversial chemical. The decision is likely to stir up an already heated debate. The scientific community for years has questioned the safety of BPA, particularly when ingested by infants. Many cite evidence that it is a carcinogen.

Consumers look for different packaging in weak economy, says Unilever study
A new study by Unilever says that consumers are adopting a wide range of measures to cope with recent economic downturns. Among other things, they are looking for more creative approaches in packaging, such as different sizes that sell for less. Unilever says the study reveals how different demographic groups will change their shopping habits as belts continue to tighten during challenging economic times.

Recyclable polystyrene packaging demand Increases
The Environment & Plastics Industry Council reports expanding end-market opportunities are responsible for increased demand for recyclable polystyrene packaging. One of these markets is the Canadian Polystyrene Recycling Alliance, which purchased the equipment and technology from the Canadian Polystyrene Recycling Association late last year.

New website compares nutrition and health labels on leading food products
A new website called Labelwatch.com allows consumers to compare label information on more than 25,000 brand-name consumer products. Visitors to the site can research and compare foods on a wide range of criteria, including additives, ingredients, and nutritional facts. The site was founded by Dianne Manning, who discovered the importance of reading ingredient labels while suffering a particularly unpleasant medical issue. 

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