Food business operators must ensure that their HACCP teams are motivated, dynamic, and knowledgeable, and that they correctly identify and outline all possible hazards for their product.

An extensive literature review has pointed out knowledge gaps about the migration of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) oligomers from food contact materials (FCMs) into foods, as well as inadequate risk assessment for the chemicals.

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) has alerted businesses that they should not sell plastic food contact materials containing bamboo and other plant-based materials, and have put out a call for evidence related to their safety and stability. 

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs are a policy approach where producers are given a significant responsibility for the treatment of post-consumer products. They involve building the cost of disposal into the cost of the product. These programs are meant to boost collection and recycling. They can also result in increased reusable and refillable packaging and encourage material reduction in packages. Any EPR program for food packaging needs to take into account food safety requirements and comply with applicable food packaging regulations. Any changes in food packaging must continue to protect the food after filling, during transportation and storage, and throughout its shelf life. Currently, four states—Maine, Oregon, Colorado, and California—have food packaging EPR laws, with more states expected to follow. However, EPR laws impacting food packaging are still in their infancy. States are looking for the most efficient ways to meet the requirements in the statues.

Chinova Bioworks has introduced the new MycoKleer™, a sustainably produced vegan fining agent for the manufacturing of beverages. MycoKleer can save manufacturers time, energy, and money by improving their efficiencies during the clarification process of drinks.

Primera Technology Inc. has announced its new AP-CODE Lot and Date Coder for product labeling. AP-CODE, in combination with Primera’s AP360 and AP362 label applicators, now allows customers to apply their labels and simultaneously print dates, lot codes, and more directly onto containers with one, integrated machine.

Sabert Corporation recently announced the launch of the new Pulp Plus and Pulp Max proprietary molded fiber blends without the intentional inclusion of added per- and polyfluoralkyl substances (PFAS). 

Premium Label & Packaging Solutions has announced that Overnight Labels, its facility located in Farmingdale, New York, has received Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification.

The new Venting Surge Hopper from BFM® Global, made of a flexible and transparent material, provides a solution to bridging, a common problem for manufacturers processing bulk powders.

Ensuring that non-conforming product is never created—or at least never arrives at customers' doorsteps—is invaluable in the food industry. Reduced downgrade, less rework, and decreased out-of-specification product are all benefits of mistake proofing.