The compounds di-isononyl phthalate and di-isodecyl phthalate are often used in products, including soap, plastic wrap and plastic containers and have been linked to hypertension and diabetes, particularly in children and adolescents.
Lead researcher Leonard Trasande, MD, said (in a statement) the following about the findings:
“Our research adds to growing concerns that environmental chemicals might be independent contributors to insulin resistance, elevated blood pressure and other metabolic disorders.”
Furthermore, here are a few tips and alternatives to storing food:
- Use glass or ceramic containers.
- Look for containers and water bottles with a “BPA Free” label.
- Never put plastic in the dish washer.
- Throw away any plastic containers that are overused.
- Avoid containers marked with the numbers 3, 6 and 7 or “PVC” (polyvinyl chloride).