In a startling revelation, a recent study has uncovered that more than 3,600 chemicals used in food packaging and preparation have been detected in human bodies worldwide. Among these substances, around 100 are considered to be of “high concern” to human health, according to Birgit Geueke, lead author of the study from the Food Packaging Forum Foundation, a Zurich-based NGO.
These chemicals, some of which have been extensively studied, include Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and bisphenol A—both currently facing bans due to their harmful effects. However, the majority of the detected substances remain largely unstudied, leaving significant gaps in understanding their impact on human health.
Geueke emphasizes the urgent need for more research into how these chemicals migrate from packaging materials into food, ultimately entering our bodies. “We know very little about the health effects of many of these substances,” she remarked, highlighting the potential risks.
The study builds on previous research that cataloged approximately 14,000 food contact chemicals (FCCs). These chemicals have the ability to “migrate” into food from various types of packaging made from plastic, paper, glass, metal, and other materials. Additionally, they can originate from other stages of the food production process, such as conveyor belts, kitchen utensils, and industrial equipment.
With millions of individuals potentially exposed to these substances daily, the findings raise important questions about food safety and public health policies. The researchers call for comprehensive assessments and stricter regulations to address the presence of hazardous chemicals in food-related materials.
The revelations of this study underscore the complexities of modern food production and the hidden risks that may accompany convenience. As consumers become more aware of these issues, there is a growing demand for transparency and safer alternatives in food packaging and processing.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
