The food enzyme α‐amylase (4‐α‐d‐glucan glucanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.1) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus niger strain NZYM‐MC by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in three food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include one additional process. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of four food manufacturing processes.
Environ Toxicol Chem. 2026 Jul 15:vgag184. doi: 10.1093/etojnl/vgag184. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
The Common Loon is a piscivorous bird whose populations have been impacted by human activities, including mortality and/or reduced productivity from lead fishing tackle, habitat loss, human disturbance, and elevated levels of mercury. In New Hampshire, the loon is listed as state threatened due to its slow recovery from historic population declines, current high rates of anthropogenic mortality, and declining productivity rates despite intensive management. The extent to which loons are exposed to persistent organic contaminants that could affect population health is not well understood. We quantified legacy contaminants (polychlorinated biphenyls [PCB], polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins [PCDD], polychlorinated dibenzofurans [PCDF], organochlorine pesticides, trace elements) and contaminants of emerging concern (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances [PFAS], brominated diphenyl ethers [BDE]) in 92 Common Loon eggs collected from 28 lakes between 1993-2021 in New Hampshire. We measured egg size and eggshell thickness to assess potential relationships with contaminant exposure. Egg burdens of 9PFAS ranged from 58.4-1,587.4 ng/g wet weight, 6BDE from 9.3-336.5 ng/g, 209PCB from 398-12,849 ng/g, PCDD/F from 5.4-55.5 pg/g toxic equivalency factor, total dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) from 132.8-974.0 ng/g, and total chlordane from 10.4-131.1 ng/g. Contaminant levels in 65% of eggs exceeded the lowest observed effects levels seen in other bird species for at least one contaminant class. Ordination and clustering analysis detected an inverse correlation between egg morphology and burdens of BDE, organochlorine pesticides, PCDD/F, and PCB. Further monitoring of contaminants in loon eggs is warranted to assess levels of contaminants in New Hampshire lakes, the relative contributions of spatial and temporal variation to exposure risk, and how co-exposure to multiple contaminant classes and other anthropogenic and environmental stressors could influence the health of loon populations.
PMID:42458810 | DOI:10.1093/etojnl/vgag184
preDQ is a software tool for prediction of peptides binding to HLA‐DQ2 and HLA‐DQ8 proteins, associated with susceptibility to celiac disease. preDQ was designed to evaluate the risk of novel proteins to cause celiac disease following EFSA's guidance on assessment of genetically modified plants. The predictive capability of preDQ relies on the utilization of five robust models, each producing five corresponding risk assessment outputs. These models have been developed using datasets containing both known binding and non‐binding peptides to HLA‐DQ2.5 and HLA‐DQ8.1.
In 2025, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) further strengthened its capacity to anticipate and respond to emerging risks in food safety through an integrated system combining emerging risk identification and horizon scanning. This annual report presents the outcomes of these activities, highlighting the role of collaborative networks, data‐driven methodologies and foresight approaches in supporting preparedness and strategic decision‐making.
The food enzyme α‐amylase (4‐α‐d‐glucan glucanohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.1.) is produced with the non‐genetically modified Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain LMG‐S 32676 by Kerry Ingredients & Flavours Ltd. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in six food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include three additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of nine food manufacturing processes.
The food enzyme α‐amylase (4‐α‐d‐glucan glucanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.1) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus niger strain NZYM‐SB by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in three food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include one additional process. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of four food manufacturing processes.
The food enzyme phospholipase A1 (phosphatidylcholine 1‐acylhydrolase, EC 3.1.1.32) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus niger strain NZYM‐FP by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in one food manufacturing process. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include four additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of five food manufacturing processes.
The food enzyme phospholipase A1 (phosphatidylcholine 1‐acylhydrolase, EC 3.1.1.32) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus oryzae strain NZYM‐PP by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in one food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include three additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of four food manufacturing processes.
Molecules. 2026 Jun 29;31(13):2268. doi: 10.3390/molecules31132268.
ABSTRACT
The widespread environmental presence of microplastics has led to their increasing co-occurrence with pesticides in agricultural soils, which raises concerns about their potential combined effects on pollutant behavior and toxicity. In this study, we investigated the environmental fate of boscalid and its toxicity to earthworms under co-exposure with two types of microplastics. Both polyethylene microplastics (PE) and polylactic acid microplastics (PLA) significantly enhanced boscalid retention in soil and delayed its degradation. Co-exposure impaired intestinal barrier function, promoted boscalid bioaccumulation, and triggered more severe oxidative stress and metabolic disturbances in earthworms. Notably, differences were observed between PE and PLA in their effects on boscalid behavior and earthworm responses. Our study suggests that microplastics may influence the ecological risk of boscalid through potential carrier effects and biological interface interactions and indicates mechanistic differences between conventional and biodegradable microplastics in modulating pesticide toxicity. These findings offer new insights into the environmental risk assessment of combined pollution.
PMID:42451636 | DOI:10.3390/molecules31132268
Diagnostics (Basel). 2026 Jul 6;16(13):2116. doi: 10.3390/diagnostics16132116.
ABSTRACT
Background/Objectives: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) interfere with hormonal homeostasis and have been implicated in gynecological malignancy pathogenesis. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence regarding EDC exposure and breast, endometrial, ovarian, and cervical cancers, examining molecular mechanisms, epidemiology, and diagnostic and clinical implications. Methods: We conducted a literature review using PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases through April 2026, including systematic reviews, meta-analyses, prospective cohorts, case-control studies, and mechanistic investigations examining EDC-cancer associations. Methodological quality was appraised using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and AMSTAR-2, with overall certainty of evidence rated using the GRADE framework. Results: Major EDC classes-bisphenol compounds, phthalates, polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances-demonstrate carcinogenic potential through estrogen receptor modulation, epigenetic alterations, oxidative stress, and oncogenic signaling disruption. Breast cancer shows the strongest evidence, with prenatal and early-life DDT/DDE exposure associated with up to a 3.7-fold increased risk. Endometrial cancer demonstrates associations with xenoestrogen mixtures exhibiting non-monotonic dose-responses, whereas ovarian and cervical cancers show emerging but limited associations. Common mechanisms include receptor crosstalk, epigenetic dysregulation with transgenerational effects, oxidative genomic instability, metabolic reprogramming, and cancer stem cell enrichment. Conclusions: Evidence supports EDC contributions to gynecological malignancy through convergent pathways, though causal inference remains constrained by observational epidemiology, long latency periods, and challenges in characterizing real-world mixture exposures. Diagnostic and prevention strategies should integrate EDC exposure into risk-prediction models, leverage multi-omics biomarkers for early detection, and emphasize exposure reduction during critical developmental windows alongside regulatory reform.
PMID:42449897 | DOI:10.3390/diagnostics16132116
Foods. 2026 Jul 1;15(13):2336. doi: 10.3390/foods15132336.
ABSTRACT
Pesticide residues in vegetables constitute a potential source of exposure to endocrine- and reproductive-disrupting chemicals (EDCs/RDs), particularly in vulnerable populations such as children. This study assessed pesticide occurrence in vegetables from 12 countries worldwide and evaluated associated health risks for children and adults within the framework of European legislation. Of the 390 analyzed samples, 84.7% contained 40 pesticides, including nine non-approved compounds (26% of samples). Fungicides were among the detected groups (81.7%), with boscalid (0.005-0.36 mg kg-1) and propamocarb (0.005-0.87 mg kg-1) being the most commonly occurring compounds. Multiresidue contamination was observed in 75.7% of samples. Tomatoes and leeks exhibited the highest concentrations, and the European Union maximum residue level (MRL) was exceeded by up to 240% for flonicamid in Chinese cabbage. Propamocarb was the most commonly identified EDC, while tomatoes showed the greatest diversity of these compounds. RDs occurred less frequently, with pyraclostrobin being the most common. Risk assessment resulting from the presence of multiple pesticides in an individual sample expressed as the hazard index (HI) exceeded acceptable levels for BE toddlers consuming tomatoes (1.345 for EDCs and 1.264 for RDs) and leeks (1.010) containing propamocarb. These findings highlight an in-depth toxicological evaluation of the combined effects of multiple hazardous pesticides occurring simultaneously, which may support future legislative measures aimed at improving food safety.
PMID:42450454 | DOI:10.3390/foods15132336
Environ Res. 2026 Jul 15:125259. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2026.125259. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Pesticides are typical toxic organic pollutants that can readily associate with microplastics owing to the large specific surface area and lipophilicity of microplastics, leading to more complex ecological risks in aquatic environments. In this work, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) was selected as the target pesticide, and HCNT/AgCl@Ag with interface induced nitrogen vacancies was constructed by loading AgCl@Ag onto the surface of hexagonal g-C3N4 nanotubes (HCNT) through an in situ photoreduction method. Benefiting from the high specific surface area and the Z-scheme heterojunction, the material exhibited good photocatalytic activity for 2,4-D degradation and high adsorption removal rate for microplastics. The catalyst could be regenerated by dissolving the microplastics adsorbed onto its surface. In addition, mechanistic studies indicate that competition for active sites between 2,4-D and microplastics occurs only at high 2,4-D concentrations, where 2,4-D dominate the catalyst surface and hinder microplastic adsorption. These findings indicate that the mutual effects between 2,4-D and microplastics largely depends on pollutant concentrations, highlighting the importance of pollutant loading in practical water treatment.
PMID:42457112 | DOI:10.1016/j.envres.2026.125259
Int J Mol Sci. 2026 Jun 26;27(13):5788. doi: 10.3390/ijms27135788.
ABSTRACT
Moringa oleifera seed cake is the byproduct of moringa oil extraction and the most valuable source of 4-(α-L-rhamnosyloxy)benzyl glucosinolate (glucomoringin; GMG), the precursor of 4-(α-L-rhamnosyloxy)benzyl isothiocyanate (moringin; GMG+M). The vascular fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (FOL) is an important soil-borne pathogen of tomato in cultivated areas worldwide. Coating seeds with phytochemicals has been reported to prevent seed transmission and control seedling infection. In this work, GMG was extracted and purified from moringa seed cake on the multigram scale, and GMG+M solutions obtained through controlled hydrolysis of the precursor with commercial myrosinase were evaluated against the pathogen both in vitro and in planta. FOL conidia germination and mycelial growth were significantly inhibited by GMG+M solutions in the range 1-1000 µM, in a dose-dependent manner, compared to GMG and control treatments, which did not differ significantly. Interestingly, the coating of tomato var. crovarese seeds with GMG or GMG+M (100 µM) resulted in equally effective reduction (70%) of the disease severity in post-emergence, suggesting a plant-mediated mechanism underlying the efficacy of the intact glucosinolate. Seed coating with both phytochemicals triggered polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity in five-day-old tomato sprouted rootlets. This study highlighted the potential biotechnological value of M. oleifera seedcake for the development of a sustainable biopesticide.
PMID:42450057 | DOI:10.3390/ijms27135788
Pesticides help feed the world – but at what cost? From farms to your plate, we explore the risks, the science, and the race for safer ways to control plant pests and diseases.
The food enzyme α‐amylase (4‐α‐d‐glucan glucanohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.1.) is produced with the non‐genetically modified Aspergillus oryzae strain NZYM‐NA by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in seven food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include one additional process. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of eight food manufacturing processes.
The food enzyme leucyl aminopeptidase (EC 3.4.11.1) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus oryzae strain NZYM‐BU by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in five food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include five additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of ten food manufacturing processes.
The conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authorities of the rapporteur Member State Austria and co‐rapporteur Member State Croatia for the pesticide active substance flurochloridone are reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 844/2012, as amended by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1659.
The food enzyme carboxypeptidase D (EC 3.4.16.6) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus oryzae strain NZYM‐MK by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in five food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include two additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of seven food manufacturing processes.
The food enzyme endo‐1,4‐β‐xylanase (EC 3.2.1.8) is produced with the genetically modified Trichoderma reesei strain NZYM‐ER by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in four food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include three additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of seven food manufacturing processes.
The food enzyme bacillolysin (bacillus metalloendopeptidase, EC 3.4.24.28) is produced with the non‐genetically modified Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain HPN 131 by Kerry Ingredients & Flavours Ltd. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in seven food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include six additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of thirteen food manufacturing processes.
The food enzyme chymotrypsin (EC 3.4.21.1) is produced with the genetically modified Bacillus licheniformis strain NZYM‐RH by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in six food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include four additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of 10 food manufacturing processes.
Environ Int. 2026 Jul 9;214:110413. doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2026.110413. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is a known threat to the environment and human health, because EDCs can interfere with many developmental processes. As immune cells rely on signaling pathways than can be impacted by EDCs, the disruption of endocrine processes exhibits the potential to directly or indirectly adversely alter immune response. We employed a high-throughput in silico workflow to identify EDCs that are likely to alter endocrine and metabolic processes with direct or indirect immunotoxic potential. Initially included 83,693 chemicals were reduced to a priority list of 6,620 and matched with blood concentrations as reported in human biomonitoring studies. Mixtures in representative concentration ratios were prepared for five main groups of EDCs with five chemicals per mixture, covering per- and polyfluorinated compounds, halogenated pesticides, phthalates, phenols, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and one mixture containing all 25 chemicals. Single compounds and mixtures were tested in high-throughput bioassays covering potential indirect modulators of immune response such as endocrine signaling through activation of estrogen receptor, androgen receptor, glucocorticoid receptor and aryl hydrocarbon receptor, thyroid hormone signaling through agonism and antagonism on the thyroid hormone receptor, thyroperoxidase inhibition, and transthyretin binding, or more direct endpoints such as pro-inflammatory signaling through the activation of nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, as well as redox and metabolic imbalance via oxidative stress response and mitochondrial disruption. 19 out of 33 bioactive mixtures confirmed concentration additivity across all tested endpoints within 3-fold deviation, indicating a clear relevance of commonly detected EDCs mixtures as potential immunomodulators.
PMID:42447793 | DOI:10.1016/j.envint.2026.110413
The Memorandum of Understanding expands interagency collaboration on food contaminant monitoring, including for toxic heavy metals and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), under the National Residue Program.
In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to exposure scientist and toxicologist Dr. Alex LeBeau about the generation, interpretation, and responsible communication of food contaminant testing data—a conversation raised by recent reports on arsenic in candy from Florida officials.
In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak to exposure scientist and toxicologist Dr. Alex LeBeau about the generation, interpretation, and responsible communication of food contaminant testing data—a conversation raised by recent reports on arsenic in candy from Florida officials.
This regulation establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Bacteriophage active against Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria_EcoPhage and Bacteriophage active against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato_EcoPhage in or on all food or feed commodities. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), EcoPhage Ltd. submitted a petition to EPA requesting exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of these pesticides when used in accordance with the terms of the exemptions.
Effective July 20, to support risk surveillance, the agency will perform metals analysis on samples that are already collected for allergen verification.
J Chem Phys. 2026 Jul 14;165(2):021102. doi: 10.1063/5.0340959.
ABSTRACT
Microsecond atomistic-scale molecular dynamics simulations were performed to compare the size-dependent adsorption stability of different pesticides on nanoplastic (NP) particles. Spherical particles of atactic polystyrene with diameters of 1.7-5.0 nm, representing NP particles in the final stage of polymer waste degradation, were considered. The results showed stable adsorption at 5 nm NP particle, while the desorption frequency of the least stable 3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid (DCVA) pollutant increases exponentially with decreasing nanoparticle diameter as indicate 1 μs simulations. The binding energy of pesticides to the smallest considered NP particle increases as cypermethrin < PCB-169 < DDT < alpha-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl alcohol (PBA) < DCVA, with only one desorption event observed for cypermethrin. For the 5.0 nm NP particle, however, this order changed, and no desorption occurred during 1 μs simulations, even for the least stable molecules (PBA and DCVA). This underscores the key role of NP size during microplastic degradation in the stability of pollutant adsorption.
PMID:42439496 | DOI:10.1063/5.0340959
Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2026 Jul 13;171:106179. doi: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2026.106179. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a well-known endocrine-disrupting chemical, yet its potential migration into traditional spice matrices during processing remains a critical and overlooked food safety concern. To address this knowledge gap, this study presents the first comprehensive investigation of BPA concentrations in isot spice and assesses the associated dietary health risks. A total of 46 samples (23 homemade and 23 industrial) from Şanlıurfa, Turkey, were analyzed using a validated ELISA kit, along with pH and CIELAB color parameters. Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) were calculated for adult and pediatric populations using Monte Carlo simulations. BPA concentrations ranged from 0.40 to 361.30 μg/kg (mean: 73.88 ± 19.15 μg/kg) in homemade samples and from 0.49 to 285.39 μg/kg (mean: 67.15 ± 14.87 μg/kg) in industrial samples, with no significant differences between groups (p > 0.05). While dietary risks were within safe limits according to US EPA doses, assessment based on stricter European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) thresholds revealed that THQ values significantly exceeded 1, particularly for children, indicating potential chronic health risks. These findings highlight the prevalence of BPA in traditional spices and underscore the need for improved production and packaging practices to reduce consumer exposure.
PMID:42442595 | DOI:10.1016/j.yrtph.2026.106179
The investigation analyzed 142 samples representing 52 rice products. Notably, 17 products contained average inorganic arsenic concentrations of at least 100 parts per billion. Rice type significantly influenced average concentrations.
Environ Toxicol Pharmacol. 2026 Jul 11;125:105093. doi: 10.1016/j.etap.2026.105093. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
To investigate pesticide impacts on declining French pheasant populations, unhatched wild eggs were screened for over 600 compounds using mass spectrometry, identifying a mixture of six pesticides. Pheasant ovarian cells (granulosa (GCs) and theca interstitial (TICs) were exposed in vitro to this mixture at environmentally relevant concentrations in basal state and in response to exogenous hormones (IGF-1 and gonadotropins). Effects were evaluated using CCK8 (cellular metabolic activity), BrdU (proliferation), ELISA (hormone production), and RTqPCR (gene expression). While cellular metabolic activity mainly increased, proliferation significantly decreased. Basal and stimulated progesterone and testosterone production increased in GCs and TICs, respectively. Furthermore, TOS, TAC, and OSI analyses revealed marked oxidative stress in both cell types, accompanied by the upregulation of genes involved in mitochondrial fusion including MFN1 in GCs. Overall, these endocrine and cellular disruptions could contribute to the ongoing decline of bird populations across agricultural landscapes.
PMID:42435976 | DOI:10.1016/j.etap.2026.105093
Emerging evidence of carbapenem non‐susceptibility led to the EFSA recommendation to include ertapenem in the resistance monitoring of Campylobacter from 2021. The CarbaCamp project investigated carbapenem susceptibility in C. coli and C. jejuni populations from food animal surveillance contexts as well as of human origin. A total of 2,315 isolates from 16 European countries were requested, of which 1,889 were tested by disc diffusion (DD).
This report details the main results of the Webinar prepared and held on Group 2: Long‐horned Anoplophora glabripennis. This is the sixth webinar of a round of 20 on EU priority pests, promoted by EFSA in collaboration with academic experts under the framework contract for technical and scientific support to EFSA's training courses on plant pest surveillance to improve plant health crisis preparedness. The webinar provided an overview of the characteristics of A. glabripennis with a practical simulation using RiPEST.
The conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authority of the rapporteur Member State The Netherlands for the pesticide active substance Bacillus paralicheniformis strain FMCH001 are reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council.
The conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authority of the rapporteur Member State The Netherlands for the pesticide active substance Bacillus subtilis strain FMCH002 are reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council.
The food enzyme pullulanase (pullulan 6‐α‐glucanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.41) is produced with the genetically modified Bacillus licheniformis strain NZYM‐LU by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in two food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include three additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of five food manufacturing processes.
Trop Med Int Health. 2026 Jul 10. doi: 10.1111/tmi.70201. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Water pollution is an increasingly important but underintegrated determinant of maternal and newborn health. Drinking-water contaminants such as heavy metals, nitrates, disinfection by-products, pesticides, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and industrial pollutants have been linked with adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes, but the evidence is dispersed across pollutant classes, outcomes and regions. We aimed to map the scope and nature of the published evidence on water pollution and perinatal or neonatal outcomes.
METHODS: We conducted a scoping review using Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and reported the review in line with PRISMA-ScR guidance. PubMed, Embase and Scopus were searched through December 2024, with supplementary hand-searching of reference lists. Eligible studies evaluated exposure to water pollutants through drinking water or water supply systems and reported perinatal or neonatal outcomes. Two reviewers independently screened records and extracted data using a standardised form. Findings were synthesised descriptively.
RESULTS: Of 138 records identified, 95 remained after duplicate removal, 65 underwent full-text review and 42 studies were included. The evidence came from 26 countries across six continents. Prospective cohort, cross-sectional and case-control designs accounted for most studies. Heavy metals dominated the literature, especially arsenic and lead, while PFAS was the most prominent emerging contaminant group. Preterm birth, low birth weight and congenital anomalies were the most frequently examined outcomes. Across studies, higher exposure levels were repeatedly associated with adverse outcomes, with signals strongest for arsenic, lead, PFAS, cadmium, mercury, nitrates and mixed-pollutant exposure.
CONCLUSIONS: The available evidence consistently suggests that water pollution is relevant to perinatal and neonatal risk. The literature is strongest for growth restriction, prematurity, birth defects and mortality-related outcomes, but important gaps remain in exposure standardisation, mixture analysis, neonatal phenotyping and intervention research. Water quality should be considered part of routine maternal-child health protection, especially in high-burden settings.
PMID:42430166 | DOI:10.1111/tmi.70201
The 102nd meeting of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) took place in June 2026 in Nanjing, China. Key outcomes included the establishment of new, temporary acceptable daily intakes (ADIs) for two substances.
The Keep Food Containers Safe from PFAS Act (H.R. 9593) would amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to prohibit food packaging containing intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances, a.k.a. “forever chemicals.”
Liver Int. 2026 Aug;46(8):e70793. doi: 10.1111/liv.70793.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly termed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), represents the most prevalent chronic liver condition worldwide, affecting approximately 25%-30% of the global adult population. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)-including phthalates, bisphenols, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals-are ubiquitous environmental contaminants with established metabolic toxicity. However, the quantitative association between EDC exposure and MASLD prevalence remains incompletely characterised. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesise the current epidemiological evidence on this association.
METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library from inception through January 2026, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD420261298624). Studies were eligible if they reported quantitative associations between measured EDC exposures and MASLD/NAFLD/metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) outcomes in human populations. Two investigators independently screened records, extracted data and assessed methodological quality using a customised Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed via the I2 statistic. Funnel plot asymmetry and Egger's test were used to evaluate publication bias. Sensitivity analyses were performed using leave-one-out methods.
RESULTS: Of 427 records identified, 42 studies encompassing diverse global populations met inclusion criteria and were incorporated into the quantitative synthesis. The meta-analysis demonstrated that: Phthalates: mono (2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP; weighted mean difference [WMD]: 2.40, 95% CI: 0.71-4.09), mono (2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP; WMD: 2.46, 95% CI: 0.81-4.10) and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP; WMD: 1.84, 95% CI: 0.10-3.59) showed significant positive associations with MASLD prevalence; pooled analysis of phthalate mixtures yielded an overall OR of 1.17 (95% CI: 1.13-1.21; I2 = 41.4%). Bisphenols: pooled analysis demonstrated a significant positive association with MASLD (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.09-1.50; I2 = 73.0%), with bisphenol A (BPA; OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 0.92-1.72), bisphenol S (BPS; OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 0.96-1.98) and bisphenol F (BPF; OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 0.77-1.61) contributing to this effect. PFAS: the overall pooled effect was OR 0.95 (95% CI: 0.91-1.00; I2 = 22.9%). POPs: the overall OR was 1.30 (95% CI: 1.22-1.37; I2 = 29.2%), with organochlorine pesticides (OCPs; OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.19-1.42) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)/OCP combinations demonstrating significant associations. Heavy metals/metalloids: mercury (Hg) demonstrated the strongest positive association (OR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.15-2.04; I2 = 87.3%), followed by lead (Pb; OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.02-1.78) and cadmium (Cd; OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.09-1.51; I2 = 79.2%); the overall metals pooled OR was 1.26 (95% CI: 1.16-1.37; I2 = 79.9%). Methodological quality assessed by NOS ranged from 6 to 9 points, with the majority of studies scoring ≥ 7.
CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis of observational studies suggests that environmental exposure to several major EDC classes-including phthalates, bisphenols, persistent organic pollutants and certain heavy metals-is associated with a higher prevalence of MASLD, although the magnitude and consistency of associations vary substantially across chemical classes and individual compounds. Findings for PFAS were heterogeneous and compound-specific. Given the predominantly cross-sectional nature of the available evidence and the considerable between-study heterogeneity, causal inference cannot be drawn. These findings should be interpreted as hypothesis-generating and underscore the need for prospective multi-pollutant studies and mechanistic investigations to clarify the role of EDCs in MASLD pathogenesis.
PMID:42423535 | PMC:PMC13348493 | DOI:10.1111/liv.70793
Liver Int. 2026 Aug;46(8):e70793. doi: 10.1111/liv.70793.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly termed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), represents the most prevalent chronic liver condition worldwide, affecting approximately 25%-30% of the global adult population. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)-including phthalates, bisphenols, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals-are ubiquitous environmental contaminants with established metabolic toxicity. However, the quantitative association between EDC exposure and MASLD prevalence remains incompletely characterised. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesise the current epidemiological evidence on this association.
METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library from inception through January 2026, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD420261298624). Studies were eligible if they reported quantitative associations between measured EDC exposures and MASLD/NAFLD/metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) outcomes in human populations. Two investigators independently screened records, extracted data and assessed methodological quality using a customised Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed via the I2 statistic. Funnel plot asymmetry and Egger's test were used to evaluate publication bias. Sensitivity analyses were performed using leave-one-out methods.
RESULTS: Of 427 records identified, 42 studies encompassing diverse global populations met inclusion criteria and were incorporated into the quantitative synthesis. The meta-analysis demonstrated that: Phthalates: mono (2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP; weighted mean difference [WMD]: 2.40, 95% CI: 0.71-4.09), mono (2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP; WMD: 2.46, 95% CI: 0.81-4.10) and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP; WMD: 1.84, 95% CI: 0.10-3.59) showed significant positive associations with MASLD prevalence; pooled analysis of phthalate mixtures yielded an overall OR of 1.17 (95% CI: 1.13-1.21; I2 = 41.4%). Bisphenols: pooled analysis demonstrated a significant positive association with MASLD (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.09-1.50; I2 = 73.0%), with bisphenol A (BPA; OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 0.92-1.72), bisphenol S (BPS; OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 0.96-1.98) and bisphenol F (BPF; OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 0.77-1.61) contributing to this effect. PFAS: the overall pooled effect was OR 0.95 (95% CI: 0.91-1.00; I2 = 22.9%). POPs: the overall OR was 1.30 (95% CI: 1.22-1.37; I2 = 29.2%), with organochlorine pesticides (OCPs; OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.19-1.42) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)/OCP combinations demonstrating significant associations. Heavy metals/metalloids: mercury (Hg) demonstrated the strongest positive association (OR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.15-2.04; I2 = 87.3%), followed by lead (Pb; OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.02-1.78) and cadmium (Cd; OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.09-1.51; I2 = 79.2%); the overall metals pooled OR was 1.26 (95% CI: 1.16-1.37; I2 = 79.9%). Methodological quality assessed by NOS ranged from 6 to 9 points, with the majority of studies scoring ≥ 7.
CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis of observational studies suggests that environmental exposure to several major EDC classes-including phthalates, bisphenols, persistent organic pollutants and certain heavy metals-is associated with a higher prevalence of MASLD, although the magnitude and consistency of associations vary substantially across chemical classes and individual compounds. Findings for PFAS were heterogeneous and compound-specific. Given the predominantly cross-sectional nature of the available evidence and the considerable between-study heterogeneity, causal inference cannot be drawn. These findings should be interpreted as hypothesis-generating and underscore the need for prospective multi-pollutant studies and mechanistic investigations to clarify the role of EDCs in MASLD pathogenesis.
PMID:42423535 | PMC:PMC13348493 | DOI:10.1111/liv.70793
Environ Pollut. 2026 Jul 9;407:128754. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128754. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
High-mountain environments are increasingly recognized not as pristine systems, but as dynamic reservoirs of anthropogenic contaminants influenced by long-range atmospheric transport and regional emissions. Here, surface snow and river waters from the Monte Bianco area (Italian Alps) were investigated using an integrated non-target screening strategy combining liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) with orthogonal extraction workflows. This approach revealed an unexpectedly complex chemical fingerprint comprising 283 tentatively identified compounds spanning industrial additives, plasticizers, pharmaceuticals, flame retardants, pesticides, and tire-derived compounds. Multivariate chemometric analysis indicated compositional differences between high- and low-altitude snow samples, as well as between upstream and downstream river-water samples, suggesting spatial variability in contaminant fingerprints across the Monte Bianco area. The probable detection of endocrine-disrupting phthalates, organophosphate flame retardants, pesticides (imidacloprid), and UV filters (oxybenzone) indicates the occurrence of diverse chemical classes in remote alpine systems. These findings position high-elevation environments as integrative archives of global contaminant mixtures and potentially relevant matrices for studying contaminant storage and release processes. The integration of complementary analytical platforms and advanced chemometric tools proved an effective framework for broad environmental characterization and contaminant prioritization in remote ecosystems.
PMID:42425292 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128754
The food enzyme thermolysin (EC. 3.4.24.27) is produced with the non‐genetically modified Anoxybacillus caldiproteolyticus strain AE‐TP by Amano Enzyme Inc. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in seven food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include one additional process and to revise the use levels. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of eight food manufacturing processes.
The food enzyme glucose oxidase (β‐d‐glucose:oxygen 1‐oxidoreductase; EC 1.1.3.4) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus oryzae strain NZYM‐KP by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in one food manufacturing process. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include three additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of four food manufacturing processes.
Following a mandate from EFSA, the EFSA Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO Panel) addressed the food and feed risk assessment of genetically modified plants containing stacked transformation events (‘stacks’). The GMO Panel examined the experience gained in the assessment of stacks in the last 20 years. Based on this, the GMO Panel concluded that under specific conditions, field trials for comparative analysis may not always be required for the assessment of stacks and a derogation may be considered.
The study represents the first publication of a large FDA dataset on ochratoxin A (OTA) occurrence in U.S. foods. OTA was detected above the limit of detection in 3.5 percent of all samples (which were targeted based on their susceptibility to contamination).
EFSA J. 2026 Jul 7;24(7):e10169. doi: 10.2903/j.efsa.2026.10169. eCollection 2026 Jul.
ABSTRACT
The conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) following the peer review of the initial risk assessment carried out by the competent authority of the rapporteur Member State Sweden, for the pesticide active substance bifenazate are reported. The context of the peer review was that requested by the European Commission following the submission and evaluation of confirmatory information with regard to the endocrine disruption potential of bifenazate for humans and wild mammals regarding EAS-modalities. The conclusions were reached on the basis of the evaluation of the representative uses of bifenazate as an acaricide on strawberry, fruiting vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, aubergines, cucumbers, courgettes, melons and watermelons), flowering and ornamental plants and nursery of ornamentals. The reliable endpoints concluded as being appropriate for use in regulatory risk assessment, derived from the available studies and/or literature in the dossier peer reviewed, are presented. Concerns are not identified.
PMID:42416395 | PMC:PMC13339717 | DOI:10.2903/j.efsa.2026.10169
The conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authorities of the rapporteur Member State, Lithuania, and the co‐rapporteur Member State, Finland, for the pesticide active substance cymoxanil are reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 844/2012, as amended by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2018/1659.
The conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) following the peer review of the initial risk assessment carried out by the competent authority of the rapporteur Member State Sweden, for the pesticide active substance bifenazate are reported. The context of the peer review was that requested by the European Commission following the submission and evaluation of confirmatory information with regard to the endocrine disruption potential of bifenazate for humans and wild mammals regarding EAS‐modalities.
The food enzyme α‐galactosidase (α‐D‐galactoside galactohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.22) is produced with the genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain CBS 615.94 by Kerry Ingredients & Flavours Ltd. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously, and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in one food manufacturing process. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include two additional processes. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of three food manufacturing processes.
Bioresour Technol. 2026 Jul 14;460:135345. doi: 10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135345. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Emerging contaminants (ECs) in wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents pose increasing risks to aquatic ecosystems, necessitating advanced treatment solutions. Constructed wetlands offer a green, low-carbon approach for effluent polishing, yet field-scale evidence on EC removal mechanisms remains limited. This study conducted a 10-month operational monitoring (January-October 2025) of a full-scale constructed wetland receiving municipal WWTP effluent in Suzhou, China, to evaluate the removal of 154 ECs-including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), antibiotics, and pesticides-and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The system achieved 40-50% EC removal alongside 14.7%-41.1% conventional pollutants reduction. EC removal efficiency correlated positively with influent concentration but showed no significant correlation with log Kow or molecular weight, indicating that mass transfer and metabolic thresholds govern trace-level EC removal. Direct plant uptake accounted for only 0.14% of the total mass of ECs removed. Instead, plants played an indirect role by shaping rhizosphere microbial communities: rhizosphere substrates exhibited higher microbial richness and greater abundance of complex organic pollutants degraders than deeper layers. Six plant species recruited distinct functional microbial assemblages, includingPantoeainAcorus calamus,ExiguobacteriuminCanna indicaandArundo donax, andComamonadaceaewithSphingobiuminThalia dealbata. Based on these findings, we propose several strategies to further enhance EC removal efficiency, including strengthening water-microorganism contact mechanisms, adopting mixed-species planting modes, and expanding the rhizosphere area. Collectively, these findings provide a theoretical foundation for optimizing plant-microbe-based technologies for EC removal in constructed wetlands and other nature-based systems.
PMID:42413588 | DOI:10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135345
Bioresour Technol. 2026 Jul 14;460:135345. doi: 10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135345. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Emerging contaminants (ECs) in wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents pose increasing risks to aquatic ecosystems, necessitating advanced treatment solutions. Constructed wetlands offer a green, low-carbon approach for effluent polishing, yet field-scale evidence on EC removal mechanisms remains limited. This study conducted a 10-month operational monitoring (January-October 2025) of a full-scale constructed wetland receiving municipal WWTP effluent in Suzhou, China, to evaluate the removal of 154 ECs-including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), antibiotics, and pesticides-and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The system achieved 40-50% EC removal alongside 14.7%-41.1% conventional pollutants reduction. EC removal efficiency correlated positively with influent concentration but showed no significant correlation with log Kow or molecular weight, indicating that mass transfer and metabolic thresholds govern trace-level EC removal. Direct plant uptake accounted for only 0.14% of the total mass of ECs removed. Instead, plants played an indirect role by shaping rhizosphere microbial communities: rhizosphere substrates exhibited higher microbial richness and greater abundance of complex organic pollutants degraders than deeper layers. Six plant species recruited distinct functional microbial assemblages, includingPantoeainAcorus calamus,ExiguobacteriuminCanna indicaandArundo donax, andComamonadaceaewithSphingobiuminThalia dealbata. Based on these findings, we propose several strategies to further enhance EC removal efficiency, including strengthening water-microorganism contact mechanisms, adopting mixed-species planting modes, and expanding the rhizosphere area. Collectively, these findings provide a theoretical foundation for optimizing plant-microbe-based technologies for EC removal in constructed wetlands and other nature-based systems.
PMID:42413588 | DOI:10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135345
The Qualified Presumption of Safety (QPS) process was developed to provide a harmonised safety assessment approach to support EFSA Scientific Panels and Units. The QPS approach assesses the taxonomic identity, body of knowledge and safety of microorganisms intentionally added to the food and feed chain. Safety concerns identified for a Taxonomic Unit (TU) are, where possible, reflected by ‘qualifications’ that should be assessed at the strain level by EFSA's Scientific Panels.
The food enzyme endo 1,4‐β‐xylanase (4‐β‐d‐xylan xylanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.8) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus oryzae strain NZYM‐FB by Novozymes A/S. The safety of this food enzyme was evaluated previously and it did not give rise to safety concerns when used in five food manufacturing processes. Subsequently, the applicant has requested to extend its use to include one additional process. In this assessment, EFSA updated the safety evaluation of this food enzyme when used in a total of six food manufacturing processes.
The proposals amend rules on plant protection products (PPPs), allowing the application by drones and accelerating the approval of biocontrol substances. They introduce unlimited approval periods for active substances in PPPs and biocidal products as well as feed additives, and simplify rules on hygiene, official controls and certain requirements concerning transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. They also strengthen maximum reside levels (MRLs) rules by prohibiting imports of food containing residues of the most hazardous pesticides and revising import tolerances. The co-rapporteurs broadly welcome the package, supporting drone use where risk is equivalent or lower, faster approval of biocontrol and low-risk substances, stronger mutual recognition of product authorisations and extended grace periods. They also call for fairer MRL rules, simpler hygiene and feed additive requirements, and harmonised analytical guidelines.
Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP
On 1 July 2026, EFSA's renewed Management Board began its four-year mandate. Bringing together representatives from all EU Member States, the European Commission, the European Parliament, civil society and food chain interests, the Board reflects the inclusive governance model for EFSA that was introduced under the Transparency Regulation.
Biodegradation. 2026 Jul 6;37(4):110. doi: 10.1007/s10532-026-10329-3.
ABSTRACT
Chlorpyrifos (CP) belongs to organophosphate pesticide group. It is extensively applied in agricultural and household settings due to its broad-spectrum insecticidal properties. However, its persistence, bioaccumulative behavior, and toxicological effects on non-target organisms, including humans, pose significant environmental and public health concerns. CP and its metabolites, particularly two including 3,5,6-trichloropyridinol (TCP) and chlorpyrifos-oxon (CPO), have been recently reported to be widely found various samples such as in soils, sediments, water bodies, crops, and even human biological fluids. These compounds disrupt biogeochemical cycles, alter soil microbial communities, inhibit enzyme activities, and are linked to neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption, and genotoxic effects. Conventional remediation strategies such as photodegradation, ultrasonication, and filtration remain ineffective due to incomplete degradation and secondary pollution risks. Recent studies highlight the efficiency of microbial degradation, especially by bacteria such as Bacillus, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas and Enterobacter as a promising, eco-friendly alternative. These microorganisms utilize CP as a only carbon source, and degradation calibre is greatly governed by various abiotic factors like pH, temperature, and moisture. The genetic as well as enzymatic analyses reveal key roles of organophosphorus hydrolases encoded by genes such as opd and mpd. The integration of plant growth-promoting traits and laccase activity further enhances their bioremediation capability. Additionally, recent advancements in biosensing techniques for CP detection offer improved sensitivity and real-time monitoring. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of CP's environmental fate, toxicological impact, degradation pathways, and the emerging role of bacterial bioremediation, highlighting its potential for sustainable environmental detoxification.
PMID:42406180 | DOI:10.1007/s10532-026-10329-3
The proposals amend rules on plant protection products (PPPs), allowing the application by drones and accelerating the approval of biocontrol substances. They introduce unlimited approval periods for active substances in PPPs and biocidal products as well as feed additives, and simplify rules on hygiene, official controls and certain requirements concerning transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. They also strengthen maximum reside levels (MRLs) rules by prohibiting imports of food containing residues of the most hazardous pesticides and revising import tolerances. The co-rapporteurs broadly welcome the package, supporting drone use where risk is equivalent or lower, faster approval of biocontrol and low-risk substances, stronger mutual recognition of product authorisations and extended grace periods. They also call for fairer MRL rules, simpler hygiene and feed additive requirements, and harmonised analytical guidelines.
Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP
Following the submission of dossier GMFF‐2025‐33580 under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 from Syngenta Crop Protection AG, the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms of the EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific risk assessment on the data submitted in the context of the renewal of authorisation application for the herbicide‐tolerant genetically modified soybean FG72, for food and feed uses, excluding cultivation within the European Union.
In the frame of tailor‐made activities of EFSA focal points, a community of knowledge has been created to address possible emerging risks due to the consumption of food supplements other than vitamins and minerals (hereafter referred to as “food supplements”). The scope of this project is to gather information in order to facilitate the prioritisation of substances that are likely to be regulated under Article 8 of Regulation (EC) No 1925/2006.
A new European Commission report identified inconsistencies in how EU Member States conduct official controls for histamine (scombrotoxin) in fishery products, highlighting gaps in inspection procedures, staff training, and harmonization of testing methods.
The draft opinion calls for the 2027 EU budget to maximise support for the Union's climate, environmental, biodiversity and sustainable food objectives. It prioritises climate action, nature restoration, pollution reduction, circularity, water resilience and food safety, while stressing the need to meet and transparently track climate and biodiversity spending targets. It also calls for additional funding for the LIFE programme, stronger support for a just transition and civil protection, and adequate resources for Commission services and EU agencies, including EFSA, to ensure the effective implementation of environmental and food safety legislation.
Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP
According to the researchers, treating PFAS as a single class of contaminants may overlook important differences in how individual compounds move through water systems and respond to remediation. Treatment strategies should be designed based on molecular structure, especially chain length.
This document announces the Agency's receipt of and solicits public comment on initial filings of pesticide petitions requesting the establishment or modification of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. The Agency is providing this notice in accordance with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). EPA uses the month and year in the title to identify when the Agency compiled the petitions identified in this notice of filing. Unit II. of this document identifies certain petitions received in 2025 and 2026 that are currently being evaluated by EPA, along with information about each petition, including who submitted the petition and the requested action.
This document announces the Agency's receipt of and solicits comments on applications to register pesticide products containing active ingredients not included in any currently registered pesticide products. The Agency is providing this notice in accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). EPA uses the month and year in the title to identify when the Agency compiled the applications identified in this notice of receipt. Unit II. of this document identifies certain applications received in 2025 that are currently being evaluated by EPA, along with information about each application, including when it was received, who submitted the application, and the purpose of the application.
This document announces the Agency's receipt of and solicits comments on applications to register new pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients that would entail a change in use pattern. The Agency is providing this notice in accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). EPA uses the month and year in the title to identify when the Agency compiled the applications identified in this notice of receipt. Unit II. of this document identifies certain applications received in 2025 and 2026 that are currently being evaluated by EPA, along with information about each application, including when it was received, who submitted the application, and the purpose of the application.
Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins. 2026 Jul 3. doi: 10.1007/s12602-026-11127-2. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Intensive aquaculture serves as the cornerstone of global edible aquatic protein supply, yet pesticide residues from agricultural non-point source pollution have become a major environmental threat to teleost health, compromising both aquaculture sustainability and food safety. Pesticide exposure induces acute and chronic toxicity through multiple pathological pathways, including oxidative stress, intestinal microbiota dysbiosis, immunosuppression, endocrine and metabolic disruption, as well as genetic and tissue damage. As environmentally benign feed additives, probiotics demonstrate considerable promise in mitigating pesticide-induced toxicity in teleosts owing to their multi-target regulatory activities and innate biodegradability. Here, we critically review the core toxic effects of pesticides on teleost fish and synthesize current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying probiotic-mediated protection. We particularly emphasize the key unresolved challenges that hinder industrial translation-including pronounced strain specificity, insufficient mechanistic depth, lack of standardized dosing protocols, severe research gaps under realistic co-exposure scenarios, incomplete safety evaluation systems, and fragmented regulatory frameworks. Moreover, we propose future directions with specific emphasis on multi-omics integrated approaches, high-throughput strain screening platforms, combined pollution research, industrial formulation technologies, and harmonized safety assessment standards. This review aims to provide a theoretical and practical framework for the green prevention and control of pesticide pollution in aquaculture and to guide the rational development of targeted probiotic products for sustainable teleost farming.
PMID:42397538 | DOI:10.1007/s12602-026-11127-2
Office for Environmental Protection finds failures by department when it granted emergency authorisation in 2023 and 2024
The UK government breached environmental law on several occasions when granting farmers permission to use a bee-killing pesticide, a watchdog has found.
In 2023 and 2024, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) in the then Conservative government granted emergency authorisation to allow farmers to use a banned neonicotinoid pesticide on sugar beet crops.
Continue reading...J Biochem Mol Toxicol. 2026 Jul;40(7):e71014. doi: 10.1002/jbt.71014.
ABSTRACT
Glyphosate (GLY) is a widely used herbicide active ingredient applied in agricultural, residential, and public areas. Although the European Chemicals Agency has stated that current evidence is insufficient to classify GLY as an endocrine disruptor, increasing experimental data indicate that GLY may induce organ toxicity. This study aimed to investigate glyphosate-induced liver toxicity and to evaluate the potential protective effects of eugenol in a rat model. Eugenol is a phenolic compound predominantly found in clove oil (Syzygium aromaticum L.) and is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. It is classified as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and non-mutagenic by the World Health Organization. Thirty-five male rats were randomly assigned to five groups: Control, EU-100, GLY, GLY + EU-50, and GLY + EU-100. All treatments were administered orally by gavage. Oxidative stress markers (lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione, and superoxide dismutase), liver enzyme activities (ALT, AST, and ALP), and the expression of genes involved in antioxidant defense, apoptosis, and inflammation (HO-1, Nrf2, CAT, GPx, Bax, Caspase-3, Bcl-2, COX-2, NF-κB, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β) were analyzed. Short-term GLY exposure resulted in oxidative imbalance, inflammatory activation, and apoptosis in hepatic tissue. Eugenol administration significantly alleviated these alterations by enhancing antioxidant defenses, activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, and suppressing pro-inflammatory responses. These findings suggest that eugenol may represent a promising natural hepatoprotective agent against glyphosate-induced liver toxicity.
PMID:42388013 | PMC:PMC13324399 | DOI:10.1002/jbt.71014
The EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF) evaluated the genotoxic potential of two flavouring substances, 2‐phenylcrotonaldehyde [FL‐no: 05.062] and 5‐methyl‐2‐phenylhex‐2‐enal [FL‐no: 05.099] from subgroup 3.3 of FGE.19, in the Flavouring Group Evaluation 216 revision 3 (FGE.216Rev3). In FGE.216Rev2, the Panel concluded that the use of the flavouring [FL‐no: 05.062] at the reported use levels in several food categories would raise a concern for aneugenicity and requested substance‐specific data for the other related compounds [FL‐no: 05.099, 05.100, 05.175 and 05.222].
Parma, Italy 2026-10-21 to 2026-10-21 , 2026-10-22 to 2026-10-22
New study on fluazinam’s neurotoxicity comes up with different findings from earlier report based on manufacturer’s data
Researchers who re-ran a crucial fungicide study on neurotoxicity have come up with significantly different findings, and campaigners argue that the substance should now be withdrawn from the market.
In 2005, a study conducted by Huntingdon Life Sciences on behalf of ISK, the manufacturer of fluazinam, on the development of neurotoxicity of fluazinam in pregnant rats concluded there were no statistically significant effects in relation to brain development in the rats’ offspring.
Continue reading...The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing this request for information (RFI) seeking public input to inform development of an Innovation Challenge focused on practical, cost- effective alternatives to using conventional pesticide chemicals for crop desiccation. EPA aims to identify opportunities to reduce reliance on conventional pesticide chemical desiccants while supporting harvest readiness, crop quality, and operational efficiency. Input will help EPA shape the challenge's scope, eligibility, evaluation criteria, and potential pilot or demonstration components.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has issued new guidance to food businesses on how to comply with stricter EU food-safety legal limits for the control of listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat foods.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or agency) is proposing the sixth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 6). Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), the UCMR program gathers data about unregulated contaminant occurrence in drinking water. The proposed UCMR 6 would require public water systems (PWSs) to collect national occurrence data for seven ultrashort organofluorine compounds (including certain PFAS), three pesticide metabolites, 13 semivolatile organic compounds, and seven purgeable organic compounds. Subject to the availability of appropriations, the EPA will require all community and non-transient non-community water systems (CWSs and NTNCWSs) serving 3,300 or more people, and a representative sample of PWSs serving fewer than 3,300 people, to conduct monitoring. These contaminants are not currently subject to national primary drinking water regulations (NPDWRs), and the EPA is proposing to require the collection of drinking water occurrence data to inform agency decisions. The data collected will be publicly available. The EPA is also announcing two public meetings (via webinar) to discuss this proposal of the sixth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 6).
The Alert and Cooperation Network (ACN), which enables EU Member States to exchange information and coordinate responses to food safety incidents, processed a record 10,490 notifications. Notable incidents included a Listeria outbreak linked to French cheese, Salmonella in Italian tomatoes, and cereulide in infant formula.
Since 2025, EFSA has conducted expert knowledge elicitations to estimate survey parameters for the detection of EU priority pests listed in Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/1702, in cases where pest‐specific information is lacking in the scientific literature. The design and implementation of statistically sound and risk‐based surveys require quantitative parameters such as sampling effectiveness, design prevalence and relative risk.
This scientific report provides an update of the Xylella spp. host plant database, aiming to provide information and scientific support to risk assessors, risk managers and researchers dealing with Xylella spp. Upon a mandate of the European Commission, EFSA created and regularly updates a database of host plant species of Xylella spp. The current mandate covers the period 2021–2026.
Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA evaluated the effectiveness of sanitary shucking of queen scallops (Aequipecten opercularis) contaminated with okadaic acid (OA) group toxins.
Environ Res. 2026 Jun 30;306(Pt 1):125168. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2026.125168. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Plastic pollution is nowadays a problem of global concern due to massive production and inefficient measures to reduce their use. Microplastics (MPs) receive special attention due to their ubiquity, persistence and toxicity. Moreover, they act as vectors for the transport and release of contaminants, which enhances their toxicity. Therefore, holistic approaches are required to fully understand the risk that MPs pose to the environment and human health. This study investigates the role of MPs accumulated on three beaches of the Cantabrian coast (northern Spain) as reservoirs of (semi)volatile legacy and emerging organic contaminants, using both target and suspect screening approaches. Polyethylene was the most abundant polymer in all the beaches (77%) followed by polypropylene (21%) and polystyrene (1%). Target analysis revealed significant amounts of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), Organochloride Pesticides (OCPs), UV filters, phthalic acid esters (PAEs) and fragrances associated to the MPs, with total beach concentrations up to 36 μg g-1. The highest concentrations of organic contaminants were found in MPs collected in spring on the beach most affected by urban activities. Maritime traffic as well as historical contamination in the area were identified as possible sources of pollution. Moreover, a proposed suspect screening workflow at low-resolution mass spectrometry allowed us to detect the presence of several alkanes, flame retardants and antioxidants. Finally, the risk assessment approach proposed in this study, based on a preliminary approach for assessing the risk posed by MPs, suggests that the concentrations of PAHs, PCBs and OCPs measured in the MPs could result in risk quotients that would exceed the high-risk threshold in invertebrates in most of the samples considered.
PMID:42379484 | DOI:10.1016/j.envres.2026.125168
Sci Total Environ. 2026 Jun 30;1046:181999. doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.181999. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Growing evidence links air pollution to Parkinson's disease (PD), yet most research focuses on criteria pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which cannot pinpoint specific toxic constituents driving the association. This population-based case-control study from the counties of Fresno, Tulare, and Kern in central California (764 patients, 798 controls) investigated whether specific air toxics - metals with mobile-source/industrial contributions (nickel, zinc), vehicle-exhaust volatile organic compounds (benzene, 1,3-butadiene), and industrial/urban metals (lead, chromium) - are associated with PD. Using land-use regression models linked to participants' full residential and workplace address histories, we estimated 10-year, 5-year, and 1-year average pollutant exposures preceding diagnosis (patients) or interview year (controls). Associations were assessed via logistic regression, adjusting for sociodemographics and pesticide exposure. For nickel we estimated the strongest and most consistent effect across all averaging periods, with a 10-year residential odds ratio (OR) of 1.63 (95% CI = 1.04-2.55) and a nearly three-fold increase in the odds of PD due to ambient exposure at the workplace (OR = 2.89, 95% CI = 1.48-5.80) per interquartile range increase. Zinc showed a positive 10-year residential address association (OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 0.98-2.10). The volatile organic compounds benzene (5-year workplace OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.16-2.93) and 1,3-butadiene (1-year workplace OR = 4.56, 95% CI = 2.86-7.49) exhibited stronger associations at shorter averaging windows, particularly at workplace addresses. In co-pollutant models, air toxics associations persisted after adjustment for NO2 or PM2.5, while criteria pollutant associations attenuated. No associations were observed for lead or chromium in these predominantly agricultural counties. Our findings highlight that traffic-related and industrial air toxics from both non-exhaust and exhaust sources may contribute to PD risk, underscoring the importance of evaluating pollutant sources and components when assessing environmental determinants of PD.
PMID:42378886 | DOI:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.181999
This technical report reflects the outcome of the ecotoxicology experts’ meeting on the use of critical appraisal tools for the appraisal of ecotoxicology studies evaluated under the EU pesticides’ legal framework. General and specific issues related to the available tools were identified and discussed. Implementation of the reached agreements and recommendations on these topics were drawn as needed. Experts agreed the future implementation of the tools in the regulatory context.
Since 2025, EFSA has conducted expert knowledge elicitations to estimate survey parameters for the detection of EU priority pests listed in Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/1702, in cases where pest‐specific information is lacking in the scientific literature. The design and implementation of statistically sound and risk‐based surveys require quantitative parameters such as sampling effectiveness, design prevalence and relative risk. This report presents the estimated values for Anoplophora chinensis, together with the supporting evidence and expert rationale.
This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of bifenthrin in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. Interregional Project Number 4 (IR-4) submitted a petition to EPA requesting that EPA establish a maximum permissible level for residues of this pesticide in or on the identified commodities.
This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of diflufenican (CASRN 83164-33-4) in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), Bayer CropScience submitted a petition to EPA requesting that EPA establish a maximum permissible level for residues of this pesticide in or on the identified commodities.
This regulation modifies existing tolerances for residues of chlormequat chloride in or on barley, oats, triticale, and wheat grains; and in or on multiple food and livestock commodities that are identified and will be discussed in detail later in this document. Taminco US LLC, a subsidiary of Eastman Chemical Company, requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of epyrifenacil (CASRN 353292-31-6) in or on corn, field (forage, grain, stover); rapeseed, seed; soybean (forage, hay, seed); wheat (forage, grain, hay, straw). Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), Valent submitted a petition to EPA requesting that EPA establish a maximum permissible level for residues of this pesticide in or on the identified commodities.
This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of fluoxapiprolin in or on the food and feed commodities of brassica head and stem vegetables (group 5-16); bulb vegetables (subgroups 3-07A and 3-07B); cucurbit vegetables (group 9); fruiting vegetables (group 8- 10); leafy vegetables (group 4-16); leaf petiole vegetables (subgroup 22B); lettuce head; small fruit vine climbing, except fuzzy kiwifruit (subgroup 13-07F); and tuberous and corm vegetables (subgroup 1C). Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), Bayer CropScience submitted a petition to EPA requesting these tolerances.
Parma, Italy and online 2026-06-04 to 2026-06-04
Am J Lifestyle Med. 2026 Jun 27:15598276261462804. doi: 10.1177/15598276261462804. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, multifactorial disease resulting from complex interactions between the immune system, gut microbiota, genetic susceptibility, and environmental factors. Although advances in pharmacologic therapies have improved disease control, increasing evidence indicates that lifestyle and environmental factors influence disease course and patient well-being. In this review, we assess the impact of lifestyle factors (diet, physical activity, sleep, mental health, and smoking) and environmental factors (pesticides, microplastics, and heavy metals) on IBD. Our manuscript highlights the importance of minimizing highly processed foods, such as those in the Western diet, while promoting a whole-food and Mediterranean diets, regular physical activity, and monitoring for micronutrient deficiencies. We also provide information on sleep disturbances, mental health, and disease activity, as well as interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness, which may improve the quality of life of these patients. Emerging evidence suggests that environmental pollutants, including microplastics and pesticides, may affect IBD risk and progression, highlighting the need for further research. Integrating structured lifestyle recommendations into clinical care may have a significant role in improving outcomes in patients with IBD.
PMID:42371483 | PMC:PMC13310216 | DOI:10.1177/15598276261462804
This document announces the Agency's receipt of and solicits comments on requests by registrants to voluntarily cancel their pesticide registration of certain products and/or to amend their product registrations to terminate one or more uses. In accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA provides a periodic notice of receipt addressing requests received by EPA since the last notice of receipt was issued and uses the month and year in the title to help distinguish one document from the other. EPA intends to grant these requests at the close of the comment period for this announcement unless the Agency receives substantive comments during the comment period that would merit further review of the requests or the request is withdrawn by the registrant. If these requests are granted, EPA will issue an order in the Federal Register cancelling the listed product registrations, after which any sale, distribution, or use of the products listed in this document will only be permitted after the registrations have been cancelled if such sale, distribution, or use is consistent with the terms as described in the final order.
This notice announces a correction to Table 1 & Table 3 of Unit II, to EPA's order for the cancellations and/or amendments to terminate uses, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency, pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). This correction cancellation order follows a February 10, 2026, Federal Register Cancellation Notice. The registrant of 70060-12, 70060-13, & 70060-32 withdrew their requests, and they should not be listed in this Cancellation Notice; therefore, they have been removed.
Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care. 2026 Jun 27:101943. doi: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2026.101943. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Preterm birth (PTB) is a leading worldwide cause of morbidity and mortality among children less than five years old. In 2006, Puerto Rico reported a PTB rate of 19.9%, the highest in the United States that year. Health care factors did not explain the high rate, leading to environmental exposures as potential risk factors. The PROTECT Center studied the role of diverse chemicals in the risk of PTB and other pregnancy outcomes by recruiting and following up a cohort of pregnant persons in northwest Puerto Rico. Study participants had high levels of phthalates, pesticides, metals, and most chemicals tested, and most were associated with PTB and other adverse pregnancy outcomes. Drinking water, personal care, and household products were major sources of exposure. PROTECT also delved into the biological mechanisms underlying PTB. Inflammation and oxidative stress emerged as key mechanisms leading to adverse pregnancy outcomes through endocrine disruption of several hormones. Reporting results back to PROTECT participants was integral to the PROTECT center, which developed diverse approaches to share results. PTB rates in Puerto Rico declined to 12.2% by 2024. Further studies are needed to examine the role that common chemicals used in consumer products may play in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Reducing the impact of environmental chemicals on pregnancy outcomes must be a priority. Efforts to reduce levels of chemicals among persons of reproductive age should start before conception to further reduce the PTB rate in Puerto Rico and the United States.
PMID:42364931 | DOI:10.1016/j.cppeds.2026.101943
Neurotoxicology. 2026 Jul;115:103501. doi: 10.1016/j.neuro.2026.103501. Epub 2026 Jun 27.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) arises from disruption of key neurodevelopmental processes-including neural stem cell proliferation, neuronal and glial differentiation, radial migration, and synaptogenesis-that collectively shape corticogenesis. Traditional in vivo guideline studies are costly, low-throughput, and provide limited mechanistic insight, prompting OECD and EFSA to promote new approach methodologies (NAMs) such as the neurosphere assay (NSA).
METHODS: We refined and characterized a mouse cortical NSA over a three-week differentiation period using a multiparametric endpoint battery encompassing proliferation, neuronal and astrocytic differentiation, radial migration, synaptogenesis, and astrocytic maturation. Baseline differentiation was defined by flow cytometry, confocal immunofluorescence, and qPCR. Two chronic exposure scenarios were implemented: (i) during the 7-day proliferation phase, and (ii) from the onset of differentiation and migration throughout the three-week maturation period. Chlorpyrifos (CPF) was used as a DNT-positive reference compound, and a biomonitoring-informed PFAS mixture of PFOS, PFOA and PFUnDA was designed using French Esteban data to reflect low-nM, environmentally relevant exposure levels; due to availability constraints, PFHxS was not included and 4:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (4:2 FTSA) was used as the short-chain sulfonate component.
RESULTS: Baseline analyses showed progressive acquisition of neuronal (TUBB3, MAP2, SATB2) and astrocytic (GFAP) phenotypes, emergence of SYP⁺/PSD95⁺ synaptic structures, and dependence on mitogenic signaling, consistent with key features of mid-gestational corticogenesis. CPF exerted biphasic effects, with early neurosphere enlargement followed by growth arrest and impaired radial migration; at 250 µM, CPF induced overt cytotoxicity and was associated with reduced GFAP expression. In contrast, PFAS mixture produced only modest effects on bulk viability yet consistently reduced radial migration and significantly downregulated Gfap and Syp at low-nM concentrations, in line with epidemiological and experimental evidence implicating PFAS in neurodevelopmental disorders. Within this proof-of-concept dataset, radial migration emerged as a more sensitive endpoint than bulk viability, revealing functional impairments below overt toxicity thresholds.
CONCLUSIONS: The cortical NSA captures key cellular and functional features of mid-gestational corticogenesis and discriminates compound-specific DNT liabilities, with CPF linked to reduced Gfap expression under overtly toxic conditions and PFAS mixture disrupting astrocytic and synaptic programs at biomonitoring-relevant levels. By integrating complementary endpoints under chronic, developmentally targeted exposures, this work advances the NSA as a mechanistic, regulatory-relevant NAM and a strong candidate for inclusion in the OECD DNT in vitro battery.
PMID:42364883 | DOI:10.1016/j.neuro.2026.103501
The EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials (FCM) assessed the safety of the Bandera Twin recycling process (EU register number RECYC341). The input is washed and dried poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) flakes mainly originating from collected post‐consumer PET containers, with no more than 5% PET from non‐food consumer applications. The flakes are extruded at high temperature and vacuum (step 2). Having examined the challenge test provided, the Panel concluded that the operating parameters to control the performance of the critical step 2 are temperature, pressure and ■■■■■.
Animals (Basel). 2026 Jun 21;16(12):1921. doi: 10.3390/ani16121921.
ABSTRACT
Earthworms possess a highly developed innate immune system based on the coordinated activity of coelomocytes and humoral factors present in the coelomic fluid. These immune components play a central role in host defence against pathogens, maintenance of physiological homeostasis, and adaptation to environmental stressors. Coelomocytes exhibit remarkable functional and morphological diversity, including participation in phagocytosis, encapsulation, extracellular trap formation, cytotoxic responses, wound healing, and regulation of oxidative and osmotic stress. In addition, coelomic fluid contains numerous biologically active molecules, such as lysenin, coelomic cytolytic factor 1, perforin, serine proteases, lysozyme, antimicrobial peptides, and pattern recognition receptors, which contribute to cellular and humoral immune responses. Recent studies have demonstrated that earthworm coelomocytes are highly sensitive to environmental pollutants, including heavy metals, pesticides, nanomaterials, and microplastics, highlighting their importance in ecotoxicological research and soil biomonitoring. Furthermore, antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and cytotoxic activities associated with coelomocytes and coelomic fluid suggest promising applications in agriculture, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical research. This review summarises current knowledge regarding the classification, characteristics, immune functions, toxicological responses, and applied significance of earthworm coelomocytes and coelomic fluid, with particular emphasis on their role in environmental monitoring and potential biomedical applications.
PMID:42353530 | PMC:PMC13295531 | DOI:10.3390/ani16121921
Molecules. 2026 Jun 16;31(12):2116. doi: 10.3390/molecules31122116.
ABSTRACT
Lignin is an abundant aromatic biopolymer generated as a major by-product in lignocellulosic biorefineries, and its efficient valorization is essential for improving process sustainability and economic viability. Among current upgrading strategies, the conversion of lignin into lignin-derived biochar (LDB) has emerged as a promising route because of its high carbon yield, scalable production, and tunable physicochemical properties. This review examines the relationships between lignin structure, thermochemical conversion pathways, and the resulting properties of LDB materials within biorefinery systems. The influence of different technical lignins and conversion routes, including pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonization, is critically discussed together with post-functionalization strategies. Particular attention is devoted to emerging applications in contaminant adsorption and controlled release systems for agrochemicals. The adsorption mechanisms governing pharmaceuticals, pesticides, microplastics, and PFAS removal are analyzed, while the dual role of LDB as both adsorbent and delivery platform is highlighted. Current limitations include lignin heterogeneity, lack of standardized evaluation protocols, and insufficient validation under realistic environmental conditions. Overall, LDB represents a versatile and scalable platform for lignin valorization and sustainable material design within circular bioeconomy frameworks.
PMID:42357512 | PMC:PMC13305053 | DOI:10.3390/molecules31122116
Molecules. 2026 Jun 17;31(12):2136. doi: 10.3390/molecules31122136.
ABSTRACT
Agri-food byproducts are increasingly recognized as sustainable feedstocks for high-value bioactive compounds; but their practical valorization requires integrated evidence on recovery conditions; chemical composition; bioactivity; and application readiness. This review critically examines green recovery strategies and chemical profiling platforms for bioactive compounds recovered from peels; pomace; seed residues; hulls; vegetation waters; and pruning waste. Emphasis is placed on how extraction variables shape chemical profiles; extract quality; and reported biological activities. Ultrasound- and microwave-assisted extraction; enzyme- and fermentation-assisted recovery; supercritical fluid extraction; pressurized liquid extraction; pulsed electric field-assisted pretreatment; and green solvent-based extraction are discussed in terms of target-compound selectivity; solvent and energy demand; process safety; scalability; and sustainability-related evidence. Chromatographic; mass-spectrometric; spectroscopic; and metabolomics-based profiling approaches are evaluated for identification; annotation; quantification; fingerprinting; quality-marker selection; and standardization; with confidence levels distinguished according to authentic-standard matching; tandem mass spectrometry evidence; spectral libraries; or fingerprint-level evidence. Circular valorization pathways in food; nutraceutical; cosmetic; pharmaceutical, and biopesticide-related applications are further considered with attention to feedstock heterogeneity; process standardization; stability; safety; regulatory feasibility; scalability; and techno-economic feasibility. Overall; this review provides a linkage-oriented framework for developing standardized; application-readiness-oriented bioactive candidates from agri-food byproducts.
PMID:42357532 | PMC:PMC13305183 | DOI:10.3390/molecules31122136
Molecules. 2026 Jun 16;31(12):2116. doi: 10.3390/molecules31122116.
ABSTRACT
Lignin is an abundant aromatic biopolymer generated as a major by-product in lignocellulosic biorefineries, and its efficient valorization is essential for improving process sustainability and economic viability. Among current upgrading strategies, the conversion of lignin into lignin-derived biochar (LDB) has emerged as a promising route because of its high carbon yield, scalable production, and tunable physicochemical properties. This review examines the relationships between lignin structure, thermochemical conversion pathways, and the resulting properties of LDB materials within biorefinery systems. The influence of different technical lignins and conversion routes, including pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonization, is critically discussed together with post-functionalization strategies. Particular attention is devoted to emerging applications in contaminant adsorption and controlled release systems for agrochemicals. The adsorption mechanisms governing pharmaceuticals, pesticides, microplastics, and PFAS removal are analyzed, while the dual role of LDB as both adsorbent and delivery platform is highlighted. Current limitations include lignin heterogeneity, lack of standardized evaluation protocols, and insufficient validation under realistic environmental conditions. Overall, LDB represents a versatile and scalable platform for lignin valorization and sustainable material design within circular bioeconomy frameworks.
PMID:42357512 | PMC:PMC13305053 | DOI:10.3390/molecules31122116
Arch Toxicol. 2026 Jun 27. doi: 10.1007/s00204-026-04485-x. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
The foodborne mycotoxins alternariol (AOH) and alternariol monomethyl ether (AME) have been associated with several adverse effects, including cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, endocrine disruption, and immunomodulation. As these endpoints are typically observed in vitro at micromolar concentrations, the question arises whether such levels are attainable in exposed humans. To address this data gap in chemical risk assessment, a physiologically based kinetic (PBK) model was developed to predict internal exposure doses to AOH and AME in humans. As input parameters, kinetic constants for hepatic glucuronidation were obtained in vitro by incubating Sprague Dawley rat and human liver S9 fractions with 0.5-50 µM AOH and 0.5-20 µM AME, demonstrating rapid biotransformation in both species. Intestinal absorption of AME and physicochemical parameters were estimated using quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models. Sensitivity analysis identified parameters describing hepatic glucuronidation and gastrointestinal uptake as among the most influential, confirming the importance of their reliable estimation. The PBK model was evaluated against available rodent toxicokinetic data and subsequently extrapolated to humans. Ultimately, the currently available exposure estimates published by EFSA in 2016 were applied to predict target tissue concentrations, which were compared to points of departure (PoDs) for relevant toxicological endpoints. Even in the most susceptible group of male toddlers, predicted internal concentrations (10⁻4 µM range) were approximately four orders of magnitude below the respective PoDs. Consequently, under the applied exposure assumptions and considering the compounds as isolated chemicals, AOH and AME are not expected to reach systemic or tissue concentrations associated with the investigated effects.
PMID:42362747 | DOI:10.1007/s00204-026-04485-x