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Press Room
Vinyl Institute Comments on White House Plastics Plan
On July 19, the Biden-Harris Administration released a report titled “Mobilizing Federal Action on Plastic Pollution: Progress, Principles and Priorities” which aims to reduce plastic pollution by phasing out single-use plastics in federal operations. While the overarching goal of eliminating plastic waste is something we all agree on, we must be cautious not to ban materials that keep our food fresh and are widely known to prevent food waste.
Many perishable food products such as fresh beef, pork, and cheese require protection from oxygen to maintain product color and prevent microbial spoilage during storage and distribution. Meat and cheese can be stored safely for weeks to months thanks to advances in packaging innovation. This executive action may unintentionally reduce the shelf life of federal food stores, leading to increased food cost and waste every year.
We urge the Biden-Harris Administration to collaborate with recyclers and innovators, like those advancing post-consumer PVC recycling in the VIABILTY program, so that we can work together towards a more circular economy without compromising food’s safety and shelf life.