US Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., outlined his vision for addressing the growing health concerns linked to microplastics and packaging. Speaking at the Chemicals of Concern Policy Summit in Charlotte, Kennedy highlighted the rising impact of microplastics on public health, particularly in relation to food safety. He pointed out that microplastics, which can infiltrate the food supply through packaging and food production processes, not only pollute the environment but also pose risks to the food chain.
Kennedy stressed the need for a collaborative approach between industry leaders, scientists, and government bodies to tackle chronic diseases linked to these chemicals. He proposed revising FDA reviews of food contact chemicals and implementing a National Toxicity Program to consider the cumulative effects of chemicals in food.
The summit, which gathered key stakeholders from business, science, and policy, aimed to explore new approaches to chemical regulation and alternatives to plastic packaging. Kennedy also announced plans to phase out petroleum-based dyes in food and medication, citing concerns over their links to various health issues in children.
Kennedy’s call for industry involvement in reducing microplastics and improving packaging practices underlines the growing push for sustainable solutions in food production and packaging.