US consumer organization uncovers widespread presence of harmful plasticizers in food and packaging

Consumer Reports (CR), a renowned American nonprofit consumer organization, has recently conducted extensive tests to investigate the presence of bisphenols and phthalates in food and food packaging. These chemicals, known to pose potential health threats, were found to be widespread in the American food supply, according to CR's findings.    

The presence of bisphenols and phthalates in our food is a cause for concern due to their potential as endocrine disruptors. These chemicals can interfere with the production and regulation of hormones, even in minor amounts, leading to an increased risk of various health problems. Additionally, the cumulative effect of steady exposure to these chemicals over time further contributes to health risks.    

To assess the scope of the problem, CR analyzed 85 different food items, including prepared meals, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, baby food, fast food, meat, and seafood. The tests encompassed a variety of packaging materials such as cans, pouches, and foil.    

While bisphenols were detected in 79% of the samples, the levels were notably lower than when CR last tested for bisphenol A (BPA) in 2009, indicating progress in reducing bisphenol levels. On the other hand, of particular concern were the results related to phthalates, which were found in all but one food sample, often at high levels. The presence of these chemicals did not depend on the type of packaging, and no specific category of food was more likely to contain them than others.  
Surprisingly, even organic products were found to be problematic, with the highest levels of phthalates detected in a can of cheesy ravioli.    

James E. Rogers, PhD, who oversees product safety testing at CR, emphasized the importance of determining the widespread nature of these chemicals in the food supply as a first step towards developing strategies to limit exposure.    

The issue lies in the various pathways through which these chemicals enter our food. While initial efforts focused on limiting exposure through packaging, it has become evident that phthalates, in particular, can enter food through plastic used in food processing equipment, such as tubing, conveyor belts, and gloves. Contaminated water and soil can also lead to direct contamination of meat and produce.
Currently, there are few regulations restricting the use of these chemicals in food production, but manufacturers are not required to test foods for their presence.    

Setting acceptable limits for these chemicals in food is challenging since current thresholds established by regulators in the US and Europe only cover a few phthalates and BPA. Moreover, the existing limits may not reflect the latest scientific knowledge or protect against all potential health effects. The complexity of exposure to these chemicals from multiple sources, including food, printed receipts, and household dust, further complicates establishing a single "safe" limit for a particular food.    

While US regulators have limited the use of these chemicals in several products, including those that come into contact with food, regulations specifically addressing their presence in food are lacking. The FDA has requested additional data on the use of plasticizers in food contact materials, but a reassessment of the chemicals' safety is needed, according to CR and food safety scientists.    

CR calls for action from supermarkets, fast-food chains, and food manufacturers to set goals for reducing and eliminating bisphenols and phthalates from packaging and processing equipment throughout their supply chains

Additionally, CR emphasizes the need for chemical companies to develop safer and more sustainable materials, considering the field of green chemistry offering potential alternatives.    

The findings from CR's investigation highlight the urgent need for regulatory revisions, industry action, and consumer awareness to mitigate the risks associated with these harmful chemicals in our food supply.        

Source:  

Consumer Reports