Food Packaging: Protection or Risk?

Packaging protects food but can also be a source of contamination: how to protect yourself

Food packaging made from plastic, coated metal, and paper is widespread. Since these materials are not inert, they can release chemical substances and microplastics into food. As a result, people ingest synthetic chemicals through their diet, which can potentially lead to health issues.

Inert materials such as stainless steel, ceramic, or glass release little to no substances into their contents, meaning the taste, color, or composition of food remains unaffected. This is especially important for storing food, beverages, and medications that need to maintain their quality and for preventing chronic diseases such as cancer, which can be triggered by synthetic chemicals.

Dr. Jane Muncke has been Managing Director and Chief Scientific Officer at the Food Packaging Forum, a non-profit foundation for research and science communication based in Zurich, since 2012. As an environmental toxicologist (Dr. sc. nat. ETH) and environmental scientist (Dipl. Umwelt-Natw. ETH), she researches chemicals in food contact materials used for packaging. As an expert, she is currently involved in the United Nations’ global plastics treaty negotiations.

New scientific findings make it possible to protect your health—even when regulations are not always up to date. In her talk, Dr. Jane Muncke will share insights on how knowledge can help you better protect your health.

Look forward to an informative event with valuable insights.

Please register by Wednesday, August 20, 2025, by emailing Romana Aris at romana.aris@vetropack.com.

The event is held in German. The number of participants is limited. Places will be allocated in the order in which registrations are received. You will receive a confirmation by email.