Nielsen, Keithline, and Bond in Ink World

Keller and Heckman Partners Catherine Nielsen, Jeff Keithline, and Rachel Bond were mentioned in the Ink World article, “The 2021 Regulatory Report.” The article notes how there are a number of substances that are under various levels of scrutiny by federal and/or state government, including titanium dioxide (TiO2), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). In many cases, substance-specific issues like these take a little time before they reach the brands and public. Most ink manufacturers are aware of the issues and have been preparing for possible ‘restrictions’ issued in the downstream supply chain.

TiO2 is critical to the production of inks. Colorant suppliers are reporting a recent and increased focus on TiO2 and carbon black, particularly as it relates to nano-size particles, for both packaging and medical device applications. According to Jeff and Catherine, TiO2 has experienced heightened scrutiny in part due to France’s one-year suspension on the use, import, and marketing of any food product containing TiO2 as a food additive during 2020. A 2017 French scientific study had highlighted the potential carcinogenic risks of nanoparticles of TiO2, even though the European Food Safety Agency stated in 2016 that TiO2 posed no health concerns.

PFOA and PFAS are also in the crosshairs. Rachel noted that per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) continue to face enhanced scrutiny at the federal and state level. According to her, it is not surprising to see the supply chain add PFAS to the growing list of “chemicals of concern,” triggering inquiries about the presence of such compounds in the products they purchase.

To read the full article, please click here.