A recent study conducted by the Food Packaging Forum found that nearly 200 chemicals linked to breast cancer are being used in food packaging. These carcinogens can make their way into the body, posing a significant risk to human health. There is strong evidence suggesting that 76 known or potential breast carcinogens from food contact materials purchased worldwide have been found in people. This discovery comes at a time when cancer diagnoses among young people are on the rise, particularly in women under 50.
Researchers have identified over 900 possible carcinogens, including chemicals that can stimulate estrogen or progesterone production, known risk factors for breast cancer. The presence of these potential breast carcinogens in food packaging materials poses a significant threat to public health. This issue highlights the unintended exposure that individuals face daily to a wide range of chemicals that can impact their health. The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Toxicology, compares known breast cancer carcinogens to chemicals found in food contact materials, providing valuable information for regulatory action.
The majority of carcinogen exposure identified in the study was related to plastics used in food packaging. However, 89 suspected carcinogens were also detected in paper and cardboard containers. Additives such as emulsifiers and adhesives used in paper packaging can contribute to the migration of harmful chemicals into food. Additionally, chemicals like perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) commonly found in food packaging materials, are known to have adverse health effects such as altered metabolism, fertility issues, increased cancer risk, and weakened immune systems.
The Food Packaging Forum’s FCChumon list compiles food contact chemicals detected in human tissues, including breast milk, blood, and urine. This list helps prioritize chemicals for regulatory action and supports efforts to reduce exposure to harmful substances. While the FDA reviews and approves food contact substances, continuous safety analysis and regulation are essential. The FDA will hold a public meeting to present solutions for improving post-market food analyses, addressing safety concerns associated with food packaging materials.
To mitigate the risk of toxic exposure, consumers can take practical steps to protect themselves, such as choosing organic produce, meat, and dairy, avoiding burning or charring meat, using glass or stainless steel food storage containers, and phasing out nonstick pans. Additionally, consumers can select smaller seafood over larger ones, avoid canned or moist food packaged in plastic, and switch to glass or stainless steel water bottles. By taking these actions, individuals can reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals present in food packaging and protect their health.
