The study appears in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology.ĭue to the growing awareness of the potential health risks of phthalates, manufacturers have started using non-phthalate replacement plasticizers in commercial products. To further assess the contribution of fast-food consumption to plasticizer exposure, a recent study assessed the concentration of plasticizers in popular food items from fast-food chains in the United States. Consistent with the increased likelihood of exposure to food contact materials, research links consumption of fast food with higher levels of phthalates in urinary samples.
For instance, scientists associate exposure to phthalates with reduced sperm count, lower fertility in both males and females, obesity, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.įast-food items are highly processed, involving the use of prepackaged food items and several steps of preparation. Phthalates such as DnBP and DEHP can interfere with the activity of thyroid hormones and steroid hormones, including estrogen and testosterone.Ĭonsequently, exposure to these phthalates plays a role in developmental, reproductive, and metabolic disorders. Phthalates, such as di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), are endocrine disruptors.Įndocrine disruptors can interfere with the function of hormones by mimicking or blocking their effects or disrupting the production of hormones and their receptors. While phthalates are ubiquitous and present in medical devices, toys, clothing, and personal care products, experts believe that diet is one of the major sources of exposure. Phthalates can leach into food during food processing, preparation, and handling. These plasticizers are also used in food processing equipment and food preparation materials, such as gloves. Phthalates are a common ingredient of PVC food packaging items, such as the lining of food containers. Ortho-phthalates, or simply phthalates, are a class of plasticizers that manufacturers use to enhance the softness and durability of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other plastics. Plasticizers are chemicals that increase the flexibility and softness of materials. A recent study reports detectable levels of several phthalates and replacement plasticizers in popular food items from leading fast-food chains, highlighting the need for regulating these chemicals.Replacement plasticizers are being increasingly used to reduce exposure to phthalates, but there is little understanding of their long-term effects on human health.Exposure to phthalates can interfere with the function of hormones and have adverse health effects.Phthalates are present in food packaging and food processing equipment and can leach into food.Phthalates are a class of plasticizers that manufacturers use to make plastic materials softer and more flexible.Share on Pinterest A recent study investigated levels of hormone-disrupting chemicals in popular fast foods.
0 kommentar(er)
