4 Chemicals Linked to Breast Cancer Leach Into Our Foods, Study Finds

Study Links Nearly 200 Chemicals in Food Packaging and Tableware to Breast Cancer Risk

A recent study has highlighted the potential dangers posed by chemicals commonly found in food packaging and plastic tableware, particularly concerning breast cancer. The study reveals that nearly 200 chemicals connected to the onset of breast cancer are used in the production of these materials, with dozens of them capable of migrating into the human body.

Carcinogens in Food Contact Materials

The investigation builds on earlier research conducted by Silent Spring in 2007, which listed 216 carcinogens linked to mammary tumours in rodents. This list was updated in 2024 to include 921 possible carcinogens, 642 of which may have a connection to breast cancer.

Researchers compared these potential carcinogens with the Database on Food Contact Chemicals Monitored in Humans (FCChumon), which tracks chemicals that come into contact with food through packaging or tableware and have been detected in human breast milk, blood, urine, and tissues.

FDA Oversight and Delayed Response

While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for reviewing and approving chemicals that come into contact with food, it has been criticized for its slow response to recent food additives concerns. The study highlights that most carcinogen exposure occurs through plastics used in food packaging and tableware. However, 89 suspected carcinogens were also found in paper and cardboard containers.

Common Carcinogenic Substances

Many of the chemicals identified in the study include bisphenols, phthalates, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have previously been linked to various health concerns. Alarmingly, these harmful chemicals are not just limited to the packaging materials themselves but are also present in ink, adhesives, and other components used in food packaging.

The Need for Regulatory Change

This research underlines the urgent need for regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, to take decisive action to protect the food supply and work towards cancer prevention. Stronger regulation and oversight of food packaging and tableware materials are critical to reducing human exposure to these potentially harmful chemicals.

Preventative Measures for Consumers

While regulatory action is necessary, consumers can also take steps to reduce their exposure to carcinogens in food products. Some preventative measures include:

Avoid burning or charring food during cooking, as this can increase the formation of carcinogens.
Trimming fat and skin from meat and fish before cooking, as chemicals can accumulate in fat.
Choose produce with fewer pesticide residues by opting for organic or minimally treated foods.
Using glass or stainless-steel containers for storing food rather than plastic alternatives to avoid potential chemical leaching.

Conclusion

As awareness of the chemicals in food packaging and their potential links to breast cancer grows, both regulatory bodies and consumers must play a role in minimizing exposure. Proactive consumer steps and stricter oversight of food contact materials can help reduce the risks and contribute to a healthier, safer food supply.

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Read the full report here Application of the Key Characteristics Framework to Identify Potential Breast Carcinogens Using Publicly Available in Vivo, in Vitro, and in Silico Data | Environmental Health Perspectives | Vol. 132, No. 1 (nih.gov)