Argentina: UN-Funded Project to Improve Raisin Quality Through Sustainable Biocontrol
The National University of San Juan has been selected by the United Nations to receive funding for a project aimed at improving raisin quality in Argentina. The project, titled “Biocontrol of ochratoxigenic fungi in raisins promoting food security, safety and regional economies within a One Health approach,” will investigate the use of native yeasts as bio-inputs to inhibit the growth of harmful fungi that produce ochratoxin A. Involving researchers from Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico, the project aims to provide a chemical-free alternative to traditional fungicides, improving the quality of the region’s raisins through technological solutions.
EU: Trilogue Negotiations Begin on Green Claims Directive
On January 28, 2025, the Parliament, Council and Commission began trilogue negotiations on the proposed Green Claims Directive, which deals with the substantiation and communication of explicit environmental claims. At this first session, the Parliament and the Council presented their mandates and priorities.
EU: Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation Published
On January 22, 2025, Regulation (EU) 2025/40, on packaging and packaging waste, was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. It will apply from August 12, 2026.
Annex V of the Regulation lists packaging formats that will be restricted. Article 25 stipulates the following: “By 12 February 2027, the Commission shall publish guidelines, in consultation with Member States and the European Food Safety Authority, which explain Annex V in more detail, including examples of the packaging formats in scope, and any exemptions from the restrictions, and provide a non-exhaustive list of fruits and vegetables that are excluded from point 2 of Annex V.”
Spain: Project to Develop Vehicular Biomethane Using Almond Hulls
The European project Life Chandelier aims to develop an innovative, efficient, traceable and sustainable system for the production of vehicular biomethane on a small and medium scale using agricultural waste —including almond hulls— in rural areas. This project, which is co-funded by the EU and will run through 2027, seeks to foster the circular economy through the use of waste and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions while boosting sustainability in rural areas by promoting energy self-sufficiency in these regions.