New study reveals widespread presence of plastic-related additives in food
A recent study conducted by the Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC) has found plastic-related additives in 85% of the 109 food products analyzed, reflecting a significant concern regarding food safety and public health. This study is part of the EXPOPLAS project, which aims to assess human exposure to plastic-related chemical additives and is funded by Spain's Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities. Published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials, this specific research aimed to assess daily exposure to these compounds among the Spanish population.
The findings indicate that while the average intake levels of these additives fall below the thresholds set by the European health authority, there are notable exceptions, particularly for infants and young children. Julio Fernández Arribas, the study’s lead researcher, highlighted that under high-exposure scenarios, two specific compounds—DEHP (a phthalate) and EHDPP (an organophosphate)—exceeded recommended limits. Additionally, three other additives approached risk thresholds, prompting calls for stricter regulatory measures. He stressed that “although we observe compliance with current legislation, stricter regulations for certain compounds with known harmful effects are necessary.”
The study evaluated a range of food categories, including baby food, cereals, dairy, and meats, chosen to reflect typical Spanish consumption patterns. It found that eight out of ten products contained at least one type of plasticiser, with alternative additives (e.g. citrates) being the most frequently detected. These alternatives were introduced to mitigate toxicity but have also raised concerns regarding their long-term health effects.
Surprisingly, the researchers discovered high concentrations of certain plasticisers, such as acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC), even in glass containers. This was attributed to the polymeric varnish used on metal lids. The study also examined ready-to-cook meals packaged in polypropylene, revealing that cooking could amplify exposure to plasticisers by up to 50 times.
The overall average daily intake of plasticisers was calculated at 288 nanograms per kilogram of body weight for adults, with meat being the primary source. Infants and young children, however, showed significantly higher exposure levels (2 262 nanograms per kilogram for infants and 1 155 nanograms for children aged one to three). These results raise concerns as dietary intake is just one of several potential exposure routes, which can also include inhalation and dermal contact.
Given these findings, the researchers stress the importance of ongoing monitoring of plastic-related additives in food, especially for vulnerable populations like young children.
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