Chemicals from Food Packaging: A Shocking Discovery of 3,600 Chemicals Found in Humans

Uncovering the Hidden Dangers of Chemicals in Food Packaging

A recent study by the Food Packaging Forum Foundation has revealed that over 3,600 chemicals used in food packaging and preparation have been found in human bodies. Of particular concern, around 100 of these chemicals have been classified as highly hazardous to human health.

Key Findings on Hazardous Chemicals

Birgit Geueke, a scientist at the Zurich-based foundation, highlighted some of the most dangerous chemicals, including perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and bisphenol A. These chemicals are already banned in many countries due to their harmful effects on health, such as hormone disruption and infertility.

• Researchers were shocked by the sheer number of chemicals found in the body.
• Initially expecting a few hundred, they discovered 3,600—about a quarter of all known food contact chemicals (FCC).
• This raises concerns about how these chemicals transfer from packaging to food.
• Potential sources also include conveyor belts and kitchen tools used during food production.

Health Risks and Recommendations

While Geueke notes that not all the chemicals found necessarily came from food packaging, she specifically called out PFAS, bisphenol A, and phthalates, which are linked to serious health risks. She also warned of the potential interactions between these substances, which could worsen their effects.

In some samples, up to 30 different PFAS were detected. Geueke advises limiting contact with packaging and avoiding heating food in its original packaging to reduce exposure.

Moving Forward: A Call for Stricter Regulations

Duane Mellor, a nutrition expert from Aston University, praised the study but stressed the need for more data on the actual levels of chemical exposure. Instead of causing alarm, he urged a focus on gathering better information and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals when possible.

These findings emphasize the urgent need for stricter regulations on food packaging materials and greater awareness of the chemicals we're exposed to daily. In response to these alarming findings, the European Union is already taking action by planning to ban PFAS in food packaging and proposing a ban on bisphenol A by the end of the year.