Humans Exposed to Over 3,500 Chemicals in Contact with Food

A recent study conducted in Switzerland highlights a concerning phenomenon: human exposure to chemicals in contact with food. Researchers discovered several thousand chemicals present in food packaging and other items that come into contact with food. Among these substances are the highly controversial PFAS (or "forever chemicals").

An Alarming Study on Chemicals in Food Contact The human body is continuously exposed to no fewer than 3,601 chemicals found in food packaging and other food contact objects. This is the finding of a study published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology on September 17, 2024. Led by the Food Packaging Forum Foundation in Zurich, Switzerland, this study suggests an underestimation of exposure to these substances, particularly as they have been found in various human samples, such as urine, blood, and breast milk.

Among the substances of concern, bisphenol A can still be cited, as it remains present in the lining of canned goods, cans, and bottles. Additionally, phthalates are found in plastic bottles, baby jars, and printing inks. The authors of the study also noted the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), primarily in Teflon cookware.

Furthermore, this research highlighted significant gaps in biosurveillance and toxicity data. With the help of four academic institutions, the team at the Food Packaging Forum Foundation compiled an interactive tool for greater clarity: FCChumon. It is worth noting that the term FCC stands for food contact chemicals.

The Urgency to Act It is difficult to discuss these various substances without mentioning health risks. Indeed, there are concerns about cancer risks, immune system disruptions, and adverse effects on reproduction. Moreover, researchers estimate that other products are still not being monitored today.

In terms of recommendations, the authors of the study addressed policymakers as well as food industry companies. One of the alternatives mentioned is the use of glass packaging, although packaging is only part of the problem. In reality, there should also be a complete reassessment of the composition of various containers and kitchen items.

Martin Scheringer, a group leader at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich and an expert in hazard and risk assessment of various chemicals, participated in the study. He expressed his views in a publication by the association Le Pouvoir d’Agir in May 2024. The expert specifically emphasized the urgent need to rapidly ban PFAS in as many applications as possible.