Phthalates in Food packaging lead to 100,000 deaths in US each year

According to a new study, a chemical called phthalates (PFAS) in plastic food packaging and various consumer goods kills 91,000 to 107,000 elderly people each year in the United States. This study, published in the Environmental Pollution on October 12, 2021, outlines the risks of phthalates in food packaging, but these chemicals can be used in shampoos, nail polishes, creams, and even baby lotions. Researchers found that adults aged 55-64 years, who have the highest exposure to phthalates, are far more likely to die of all causes, especially cardiovascular disease, than adults with reduced exposure. 

“Our research shows that the sacrifice of this chemical to society is far greater than we initially thought,” he said. Leonardo Trasande, lead author of the study and director of the NYU Langone Environmental Hazard Research Center. Although these chemicals are only allowed to be used in toys to a very limited extent, their traceability in food packaging or non-public medical equipment is minimal. Many people ingest or inhale phthalates because everything from the floor to private toiletries to plastic programs can be dietary related.

Behind this new look, researchers are now seeking stronger guidelines for phthalates. Dr. Trasande said the study does not provide immediate causes and consequences between phthalates and death, but does raise alarms that our societies exposure to phthalates should be more seriously addressed. Currently, researchers are studying the effects of phthalates on human hormones and stimuli to see if there is a similar hyperlink between these prevalent chemicals and public health.

Reference:

EcoWatch. (2021). Phthalates in Food Packaging Lead to 100,000 Deaths in U.S. Each Year, Study Finds. [online] Available at: https://www.ecowatch.com/phthalates-food-packaging-health-consequences-2655318514.html [Accessed 28 Oct. 2021]