25 May 2023 --- The study titled “Unpacking the complexity of the polyethylene food contact articles value chain: A chemicals perspective” flags that the recycling processes of PE may introduce unknown or dangerous chemicals that could transfer from recycled packaging into the food it contains, creating safety concerns.The researchers used a systematic evidence map of 116 studies looking at the migration of FCCs across the lifecycle of PE food packaging. The study identified out of 377 food contact chemicals (FCCs), 211 migrated from PE food packaging into food or food simulants. Due to its processability and barrier properties, PE is the most widely used type of plastic for food packaging.
