“Made in the USA”—or maybe just claiming to be “Born in the U.S.A.”— simple claim, complicated rules. Keller and Heckman Partner Rick Mann, Counsel Antonia Stamenova-Dancheva, and Associate Anushka Stein join the hosts to unpack the evolving legal landscape of the distinction between advertising claims and country-of-origin rules, as well as key federal and state requirements such as the FTC’s Made in USA Labeling Rule, the Buy America Act, and California’s stricter standard. The group also breaks down the latest executive order and what it signals for enforcement, examines trends in FTC activity and rising class action litigation, and shares practical steps companies can take now.

Recyclable — or is it? California's SB 343 "Truth in Recycling Law" is facing a major constitutional challenge, and the implications for companies making sustainability claims are significant. Keller and Heckman Partners Sheila Millar and Ro Sabnis join our hosts to break down the legal theories behind the lawsuit, what the timeline means for companies facing a manufacturing deadline, and how this case fits into the growing patchwork of state sustainability labeling laws.

You don't know how lucky you are! Keller and Heckman Partner Hazel O’Keeffe returns to the podcast to provide the latest updates on the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

What a long, strange trip it’s been for the industry this last year. In this episode, hosts Mark and Katie take a high-level look at the regulatory shifts that have shaped food and packaging in the last year, from FDA leadership changes and evolving approaches to food additives, GRAS, and ultra-processed foods, to rising state-level action on EPR, PFAS, and color additives. We also cover major global developments, including the EU’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation and key updates to China’s food contact standards. Join us as we take a Grateful look back on the milestones of a transformative year and what Weir looking out for on the horizon.

In this episode, Partner Sheila Millar, Counsel Antonia Stamenova-Dancheva, and Associate Anushka Stein join our hosts to break down the complex world of packaging regulations for consumer products. From identifying which types of packaging fall under federal scrutiny to preparing for major upcoming changes like CPSC eFiling in 2026, we dive into essentials for producers and importers.

In this episode of Food & Chemicals Unpacked, we’re joined by Dave Fusaro, Editor in Chief of Food Processing magazine, to unpack the growing debate over ultra-processed foods (UPFs). We discuss Mark Thompson's article, "Ultraprocessed Foods: What Are We Even Talking About?" along with recent regulatory and legislative developments, including the FDA’s request for information on UPFs, state-level actions such as California’s AB 1264, and ongoing efforts to define what “ultra-processed” really means.

In this episode of Food and Chemicals Unpacked, we revisit Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging, now rapidly advancing with deadlines approaching. Keller and Heckman Partner Rachel Bond returns to share updates on state implementation, reporting requirements, a legal challenge, and the latest legislative developments, including new study bills and growing momentum across the U.S.

In this episode, Keller & Heckman LLP Partner Eve Pelonis joins us to dive deep into the colorful world of color additives for food, drugs, and cosmetics, clearing up common misconceptions. We touch on important issues, including whether the GRAS exemption is applicable to color additives, and the recent attention on synthetic color additives by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the new administration's push for natural alternatives.

In this episode of Food & Chemicals Unpacked, we dive into the current adjustments experienced at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) so far under the Trump administration. Keller and Heckman Partner George Misko joins us to discuss the future of food safety regulations, including the downsizing of HHS under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., potential changes to the GRAS process, and FDA’s ongoing post-market review program. We also discuss Keller and Heckman’s Paper Packaging Law Seminar coming up in May 2025.

In this episode of Food & Chemicals Unpacked, we are joined by guest speakers, Partners Cynthia Lieberman and Rick Stearns, who dive into the recent evolution of FDA's cosmetics regulations. They explore the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MOCRA), including new requirements relating to adverse event reporting, Good Manufacturing Practices, and other topics. The discussion also provides insights on how cosmetics and personal care product manufacturers and their suppliers can ensure that finished products (makeup, soaps, sunscreen, shampoo, etc.) maintain compliance with MOCRA and other current legal obligations in the United States.