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At What Point Should Companies Cease Using Controversial Packaging Components?

This month, we will explore the surprisingly complex question of “when?,” as in, when does a packaging company decide to stop using a controversial component substance?

Eric G

Do you stop on the very day it’s literally prohibited by law, or before that, at the first whiff of public controversy, or somewhere in between?

It’s not a theoretical question. Instead, it’s a supremely practical one, as the substances in food packaging are garnering more attention perhaps than ever before. Think of examples like the recent controversy and legal actions against uses of bisphenol A, as well as the new model law that a number of U.S. states are likely soon to adopt that essentially bans PFAS and phthalates, and the EU officials who have declared titanium dioxide not fit for use in food (is packaging next?).

I posed the “when” question to a number of folks in various roles in the packaging industry. They turned out to have well-reasoned, articulate responses, as expected from experienced professionals, and while the themes of their comments were in some respects predictable—for example, that large companies have more resources than small ones to track these issues and be proactive—there were some surprises and some excellent advice for those who want to better adapt to changing times.

One official at a large food brand says they try not to be influenced by public pressure alone, and although they will work to find alternative materials to substances deemed controversial, “We are responsive to consumers, and we are informed by science.” Although “public perception is a component” of their decisions, it’s not determinative. What’s more, this official opines that reacting to legislative proposals is seldom warranted, and predicts that the recent updates to the Toxics in Packaging Clearinghouse model legislation are unlikely to get widespread adoption.

Says an official of a major packaging supplier, “The decision to phase out of a material is based on numerous factors. Of course, the first one is if the material is being banned in geographies that cover too much of your intended product area to continue use in other areas. After that it is based on a scientific risk assessment of the actual risk from that material.”


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