Washington Post (WP), ‘A future without toxic substances’ – Free University of Amsterdam study
“Detected in sushi plates, kitchen utensils, children’s toys, etc.”
“Manufacturer conducts rigorous research and risk assessment”
If you use a lot of black plastic, you are likely to be exposed to carcinogens and hormone disruptors, the Washington Post reported, citing an American environmental health research and advocacy group.
On the 5th (local time), WP introduced ‘Toxic-Free Future’ and a study published by the Free University of Amsterdam (VU).
Researchers tested 203 black plastic household products sold nationwide for bromine, an indicator of flame retardants. Of the 20 with the highest levels, 17 contained chemicals linked to various health risks.
Flame retardants are chemicals added to electronic product cases, etc. to increase combustion resistance and slow the spread of flame. Researchers were concerned that when these items are recycled, some are reused in household products.
They found the highest levels in sushi plates, beaded necklaces and kitchen utensils made of black plastic. High figures were also found for travel games and toys.
Although the researchers were unable to link exposure levels from the products they tested to specific health outcomes, they argued that the mere presence of the chemicals was problematic.
Megan Liu, a co-author of the study and policy director at ‘Toxic Free Futures’, said, “When plastic kitchenware is heated, flame retardants can seep into food, and when children wash toys, there is a risk that flame retardants can seep into their saliva.”
However, the North American Flame Retardant Coalition of the American Chemical Society said, “Manufacturers conduct rigorous research and risk assessments to ensure that flame retardants do not pose a serious risk to consumers,” and added, “This report claims the potential health risks of flame retardants based solely on their hazards, but the actual potential health risks are “There is a limitation in that it does not explain the risk of exposure level or exposure route,” he said.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that some flame retardants have been linked to thyroid problems, reproductive complications, neurotoxicity and cancer, and may cause impaired attention, motor skills and delayed cognitive development in children.
Some US states, including Washington, New York, and California, have moved to restrict the use of flame retardants in indoor electronics. Since 2006, the European Union has been working to ban or limit the use of various flame retardants.
To reduce exposure to hazardous substances, Mr. Liu: Replace plastic kitchen utensils with wood or stainless steel; Use plastic-free products in general; Buy products from companies that have strong policies against toxic chemicals; It was suggested that regular cleaning and ventilation be carried out to remove flame retardants accumulated in the air.
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2024-10-09 05:02:46