Category: Topics
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University research has intensified scrutiny of plastic contact materials globally. Derby scientists found repeated microplastic exposure damaged lab-grown liver microtissues, adding new pressure to packaging safety debates around chronic, low-level ingestion.
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Xaar and Polipress are scaling digital embellishment for wine labels. More than 20 Versatex printbars are installed in Italy, enabling tactile varnish, cold-foil effects, and high-opacity whites at printing and converting stages, integrated with label press and finishing workflows.
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Autopack has commissioned an automated sauce filling and capping line. The five-machine system at P&B (Foods) Ltd handles 250 ml to 1 L packs in glass or plastic, runs at up to 100 cpm, and combines a rotary unscrambler, 12-head piston filler, dual cappers, and multi-format labelling.
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KP Snacks has begun consulting on closing its Uttoxeter site. The proposal follows plans to discontinue Tyrrells vegetable crisps, with the plant currently manufacturing the brand’s non-potato lines.
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Iran has imposed an indefinite ban on agri-food exports nationwide. The restriction took effect 3 March, and applies to all food and agricultural products until further notice.
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Derby researchers found packaging microplastics can disrupt human liver function. Lab-grown “mini livers” exposed to repeated low doses showed cell death, inflammation, and impaired function in a study using plastics common in food packaging.
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BCMPA will stage its 2026 outsourcing conference in April, Oxfordshire. Extended Producer Responsibility, cyber security, automation, and economic pressures are set to dominate a one-day programme, with an optional networking dinner the evening before.
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Frain has opened a 200,000 sq-ft equipment showroom in Illinois. The site holds more than 2,000 new packaging and processing machines, with systems stocked to deploy in as little as 48 hours.
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Waitrose will stop selling mackerel as stocks fall sharply again. Fresh, chilled, and frozen lines will be removed by 29 April 2026, with tinned products following once existing stock sells through.
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Defra has unveiled £345 million to boost farm productivity nationwide. The package spans equipment grants, innovation funding, and capital support, alongside a revised Sustainable Farming Incentive offer.