EU: Bisphenol A Banned in Food Contact Materials
In December 2024, the European Commission adopted a ban on the use of bisphenol A (BPA) in food contact materials, citing its potentially harmful health impact. BPA is a chemical substance used in the manufacture of certain plastics and resins.
EU: Plant Protection Products Update
In December 2024, the European Commission published a Commission Implementing Decision postponing the expiry date of N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DDET) for use in biocidal products of product-type 19 until January 31, 2027. This compound is currently undergoing evaluation by the European Chemicals Agency.
The Commission has also published the following draft maximum residue levels (MRLs) for cypermethrins:
| Substance | Commodity | MRL (mg(kg) |
| Cypermethrins(1) | Tree nuts | 0.05 |
| Stone fruits | 0.01 | |
| Table grapes | 0.01 | |
| Dates | 0.01 | |
| Figs | 0.01 | |
| Peanuts | 0.1 |
(1) Proposed date of publication: September 23, 2025. It shall enter into force 20 days after its publication and apply six months thereafter. More information
Peru: Specifications for Adhesives Used in Labels on Food Packaging and Containers
Peru has notified the World Trade Organization of a new specification on adhesives for self-adhesive labels on food packaging and containers. The rules outlined therein will enter into force in late April 2025.
Singapore: Food Safety and Security Bill Passes Parliament
The Food Safety and Security Bill (FSSB) was passed in the Parliament of Singapore on January 8, 2025. The FSSB seeks to consolidate and refresh existing food-related legislation, strengthen Singapore’s food safety regime to better protect consumers and public health, and keep pace with emerging challenges in safeguarding food security.
South Africa: Draft Regulations on Food Additives and Mycotoxins
South Africa has notified the World Trade Organization of a draft regulation on the use of food additives in foodstuffs. The draft aims to establish regulations (including maximum limits) for the use of food additives in a wide range of food products, including nuts and dried fruits.
South Africa has also notified the WTO of a draft regulation on maximum levels of mycotoxins in certain foodstuffs, including aflatoxins in nuts and dried fruits.