reproductive and children’s neurodevelopmental effects.”
Phthalates can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive system.
What the study shows
Both the food and the gloves were tested for 11 different types of phthalates and plasticizers. Ten of the 11 chemicals were found in the tested foods.
More than 80% of the food samples were found to contain a phthalate known as DnBP, while 86% contained a plasticizer known as DEHT, which is commonly found in food gloves. About 70% contained a phthalate known as DEHP.
Cheeseburgers, chicken burritos and other meat products had the highest phthalate/plasticizer content, with much higher DEHT levels detected in burritos than in burgers.
On the upside, cheese pizzas were among the least contaminated foods, while French fries were found to be DEHT-free.
How to reduce exposure
1. Limit meat intake
Meanwhile, one thing that people can do to limit potential risk is to “eat lower on the food chain.” That, according to Edwards, basically means limiting meat intake.
“Many fast-food chains rely on meats, chicken and fish or other foods that are preformed, partially cooked, then frozen, packaged in plastic, and shipped to the restaurant site to be finished at the time of order,” Sandon notes. “This gives plenty of time for these foods to sit wrapped in plastic.”
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2. Eat at home
Edwards and her colleagues point to their own prior research, which suggests that home cooking is the safer bet, since people tend not to use problematic plastic gloves and packaging when prepping food in their own kitchen.
The solution, according to Sandon, is “eating less fast food and less food, in general, that is packaged in plastic. Prepare more fresh foods at home using fresh meats, chicken, or fish and produce.”
3. Be aware of all the food you are consuming
Even relatively healthy food options are not immune to plastic exposure, she adds, noting that “organic or not, the risk persists if the food is stored in plastic that has these chemicals.”
Lastly, when storing your food; opt for glass food storage containers, and choose bottles and sippy and snack cups that are mostly stainless steel, silicone, or glass. You should also never heat your food in plastic.