Latest news with #S.C
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Ziploc Is Being Sued Over Claims Its Bags Release Harmful Microplastics Into Food
Earlier this year, the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a ban on Red No. 3 in food and drinks, a move many felt was a step in the right direction regarding industry standards. Not long after, however, the FDA announced it would be temporarily halting its milk testing program, a change that drew criticism from food safety experts. Now, as grocery prices continue to rise, consumers are paying more attention than ever to their shopping carts. Recently, a class action lawsuit was filed against Wheat Thins, accusing the brand of misrepresenting its ingredients. Now, a popular storage bag brand is under fire after allegedly failing to disclose the risks of its products. On April 25, 2025, a lawsuit was filed against Ziploc, an S.C. Johnson-owned brand. The lawsuit, filed by Linda Cheslow, alleges that certain Ziploc bags are labeled as 'microwave safe' and suitable for 'freezer' use, giving shoppers the impression they were safe to use in those ways. Cheslow, however, believes the brand is misleading customers and putting them at risk for microplastic consumption. An issue, the plaintiff says, is made worse by Ziploc's claim that its products are reusable. 'These products are made from polyethylene and polypropylene—materials that scientific and medical evidence shows release microplastics when microwaved and frozen—making them fundamentally unfit for microwave and freezer use,' reads page four of the lawsuit document. Polyethylene and polypropylene are two common food-grade plastic materials used in the production of kitchen goods, including cutting boards, storage containers, and cling wrap, to name a few. When exposed to extreme temperatures, such as heat or cold, they have been found to release microplastics, which can leach into food. Microplastics, while invisible to the naked eye, have been linked to a variety of health concerns, including increased cancer risk, immune dysfunction, and inflammation. Cheslow believes that the company is putting families at risk by failing to disclose this information, and it's doing so 'for profit and to gain an unfair competitive edge in the marketplace.' S.C. Johnson has denied these claims, and litigation is ongoing. This is a class action lawsuit, meaning that it was filed on behalf of all who have purchased the product. At this time, there is no action consumers need to take. In the future, you may be able to file a claim and receive a monetary reward if a settlement fund is established. The products in question include, but are not limited to: Ziploc Freezer Bags Pint Ziploc Freezer Bags Quart Freezer Bags Gallon Ziploc Slider Freezer Bags Quart Ziploc Slider Freezer Gallon Ziploc Slider Storage Bags Quart Ziploc Slider Storage Bags Gallon Ziploc Containers Additionally, consumers may find photos of the products beginning on page nine of the lawsuit documents. Be sure to take note of which products are included when you compile your receipts and stay up to date as the case proceeds. Read the original article on ALLRECIPES
Daily Mail
20-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Ingredient linked to DEMENTIA found in popular food product used by over 200m Americans
Ziploc, the popular brand of food bags and containers used by over 200 million Americans, is now at the center of a troubling health controversy. A class-action lawsuit filed in California accuses the maker of Ziploc, of misleading consumers about the safety of its microwave-safe bags and containers. The complaint alleges that the plastic in Ziploc products may release harmful microplastics , potentially exposing millions to toxins over time. Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments —less than 5 millimeters in size—linked to cancer, cardiovascular disease, and reproductive problems. These particles can enter our food, water, and even the air as plastic products break down. The 51-page lawsuit claims that Ziploc bags and containers, marketed as 'Microwave Safe' and suitable for freezer use, fail to warn consumers that the products may release microplastics when used as intended. The complaint specifically mentions Ziploc Freezer Bags, Slider Freezer Bags, Slider Storage Bags, and Ziploc Containers. 'The 'Microwave Safe' and 'Freezer' labels create a false sense of security,' the lawsuit states. 'The company omits crucial information that these products release microplastics when microwaved or frozen as directed.' has contacted S.C. Johnson for comment. The lawsuit argues that this omission isn't just misleading, but it means the products fail at their basic purpose. 'The products fail to provide a reliable method for food storage and preparation without exposing users to material risk,' the complaint states. Filed by California resident Linda Cheslow, the suit claims that the containers labeled 'Microwave Safe' and 'Freezer' are made from polyethylene and polypropylene. Polyethylene and polypropylene are common types of plastic that can break down into microplastics, and both are used in food packaging. 'Scientific and medical evidence shows these materials release microplastics when microwaved or frozen—making them fundamentally unsafe for those uses,' the lawsuit claims. 'Because of the defendant's false claims, people have unknowingly exposed themselves and their families to harmful microplastics during everyday kitchen activities.' The lawsuit accuses S.C. Johnson of violating consumer trust by marketing food-safe containers while hiding known health risks. 'The company exploits consumer expectations by failing to disclose that its products release microplastics into food when microwaved or frozen,' the complaint adds. It also claims that Ziploc bags labeled 'Microwave Safe' can release up to 4.22 million microplastic and 2.11 billion nanoplastic particles per square centimeter of plastic within just three minutes of microwave heating. The 'Freezer' label, the suit says, misleads consumers into thinking the products are safe for low-temperature food storage without risk. The complaint further cites studies showing a 50 percent increase in microplastics found in brain samples from 2016 to 2024, suggesting these particles accumulate in the body over time. Polypropylene microplastics were also found in bone marrow, indicating they can penetrate deep into human tissues. Scientists found that human brain samples contained between seven and 30 times more microplastics than livers or kidneys, with higher levels reported in individuals with dementia. Both liver and brain samples from 2024 showed significantly more microplastics than those from 2016. S.C. Johnson responded with a statement denying the allegations: 'We believe Ziploc products are safe when used as directed and that these claims are without merit.' Rubbermaid, another major brand named in related concerns, is also facing criticism as toxicologists highlight issues with heat-related plastic breakdown and chemical leakage. In the lawsuit against S.C. Johnson, the plaintiff argues that the class should include all consumers nationwide who purchased the products within the statute of limitations. The complaint requests that the last four years be used to define this period for California consumers. Plastic food containers have long been popular in American homes because they are affordable, convenient, and durable. However, public opinion is shifting as more research links plastic exposure to serious health risks. Class members who join the lawsuit are eligible to receive an equal share of any settlement. There is growing pressure on the Food and Drug Administration to update its standards for microwave-safe labeling. Critics say current regulations are outdated and don't adequately address long-term chemical exposure or how these products are actually used.
The Hindu
12-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
U.S.-China trade agreement a mixed bag for India, say trade experts
Trade experts are divided on how the temporary trade agreement between the U.S. and China would affect India. Some argue that the deal carries opportunities for India, especially in sectors such as pharmaceutical APIs, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, organic chemicals, and IT-enabled services. Others, however, say investments that had been coming in due to high tariffs on China could now return to that country. Also read: Markets log biggest single-day gains as border tensions ease, U.S.-China lower tariffs In a significant thawing of trade relations between the world's two largest economies in the world, the U.S. and China on Monday (May 12, 2025) issued a joint statement saying they would temporarily substantially walk back the tariff escalation the two countries had levied on each other over the last few months. Following negotiations over the weekend in Geneva, Switzerland, the U.S. announced it would reduce tariffs on China to 30% from the 145% it had raised them to. China agreed to reduce duties on U.S. goods to 10%, down from 125%. These relaxed tariffs are to be in place for a period of 90 days starting May 14. The two countries further said that they would continue talks to further work out their issues. 'The reduction in tariffs will likely result in a surge of U.S.-China bilateral trade in high-value segments such as electronics, machinery, and chemicals,' S.C. Ralhan, President of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) said. 'However, India can leverage this shift to strengthen exports in sectors that remain relatively insulated from US-China trade, such as pharmaceutical APIs, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, organic chemicals, and IT-enabled services, etc.,' he added. Former Director General of Foreign Trade Ajay Srivastava, however, pointed out that this deal in its current form does not address the underlying issues such as the high trade imbalance between the two countries, which was U.S. President Donald Trump's main grouse in the first place. Further, he added that this agreement could have adverse implications for India. 'As the tariff gap narrows, companies that had shifted production to places like Vietnam, India, or Mexico may return to China,' Mr. Srivastava said. 'The 'China Plus One' strategy could quietly fade. Ironically, this deal could undo the very diversification the tariff war aimed to spark.' Other trade economists say that lower tariffs between the U.S. and China could result in a reprieve from the 'dumping' of Chinese goods that countries like India and Vietnam have faced, and have sought to protect themselves against.
Yahoo
09-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
India weighs export support measures amid U.S. tariff hike, say government sources
NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India is considering measures such as extending interest subsidies on bank loans and offering incentives to help exporters to diversify amid rising global uncertainty after the U.S. tariff hikes, two government sources said. A 26% tariff on Indian exports - alongside even steeper duties on some other countries like China - has escalated trade tensions, and raised concerns among Indian exporters of gems and jewellery, chemicals, pharmaceutical and engineering goods. The proposed support measures could be discussed at a meeting late on Wednesday, convened by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, with nearly 30 export promotion councils representing millions of exporters, said one of the government sources with the knowledge of the matter. The minister and officials are expected to examine what steps could be taken within financial constraints to support vulnerable sectors, particularly small exporters in textiles, gems and jewellery, and engineering goods, the source added. The Reserve Bank of India cut its interest rate on Wednesday for a second consecutive time while signalling scope for further easing - a move that could provide some relief to exporters. Other proposals under consideration include extending government-backed insurance on exporters' bank loans and marketing incentives to boost shipments to alternative markets in Latin America and Africa, a second government official said. Officials from the finance and commerce ministries, along with the prime minister's office, are working on the plans in consultation with other departments, the sources said. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media. The commerce ministry did not respond immediately to email request for comment. S.C. Ralhan, president of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), who will attend Goyal's meeting, said the government should offer at least 5% support through incentives and extend the interest subvention scheme, which expired on March 31, to help offset losses from the U.S. tariff hikes. Exporters have also urged the government to defer a proposed 12% safeguard duty on some steel products that aims to curb cheaper Chinese imports, warning it would hurt their competitiveness amid rising domestic prices, he said. Sign in to access your portfolio
Reuters
09-04-2025
- Business
- Reuters
India weighs export support measures amid U.S. tariff hike, say government sources
NEW DELHI, April 9 (Reuters) - India is considering measures such as extending interest subsidies on bank loans and offering incentives to help exporters to diversify amid rising global uncertainty after the U.S. tariff hikes, two government sources said. A 26% tariff on Indian exports - alongside even steeper duties on some other countries like China - has escalated trade tensions, and raised concerns among Indian exporters of gems and jewellery, chemicals, pharmaceutical and engineering goods. The proposed support measures could be discussed at a meeting late on Wednesday, convened by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, with nearly 30 export promotion councils representing millions of exporters, said one of the government sources with the knowledge of the matter. The minister and officials are expected to examine what steps could be taken within financial constraints to support vulnerable sectors, particularly small exporters in textiles, gems and jewellery, and engineering goods, the source added. The Reserve Bank of India cut its interest rate on Wednesday for a second consecutive time while signalling scope for further easing - a move that could provide some relief to exporters. Other proposals under consideration include extending government-backed insurance on exporters' bank loans and marketing incentives to boost shipments to alternative markets in Latin America and Africa, a second government official said. Officials from the finance and commerce ministries, along with the prime minister's office, are working on the plans in consultation with other departments, the sources said. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media. The commerce ministry did not respond immediately to email request for comment. S.C. Ralhan, president of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), who will attend Goyal's meeting, said the government should offer at least 5% support through incentives and extend the interest subvention scheme, which expired on March 31, to help offset losses from the U.S. tariff hikes. Exporters have also urged the government to defer a proposed 12% safeguard duty on some steel products that aims to curb cheaper Chinese imports, warning it would hurt their competitiveness amid rising domestic prices, he said.
