A recent report by the PlasticList project has revealed that 86% of tested food and beverage samples in the California Bay Area contain detectable levels of plastic chemicals. Published on 27 December 2024, the findings highlight widespread contamination and raise questions about the adequacy of current safety regulations, impacting manufacturers and supply chains globally.
Contamination Across Food Categories
The PlasticList study analysed 705 samples from 296 food products for 18 plastic-related chemicals, including phthalates, bisphenols, and substitutes. Alarmingly, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and di-2-ethylhexyl terephthalate (DEHT) were detected in 70% of samples, with dibutyl phthalate found in 50%. At least one chemical was present in all tested baby foods, prenatal supplements, breast milk, yogurt, and ice cream.
Processed foods exhibited significantly higher contamination levels than minimally processed alternatives. For instance, hot food stored in plastic takeout containers for 45 minutes had 34% higher levels of plastic chemicals than freshly served dishes. Furthermore, 22 products exceeded regulatory limits for bisphenol A, with levels surpassing European Food Safety Authority thresholds by up to 32,571%.
Regulatory Limits Under Scrutiny
While the majority of samples fell within regulatory limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and EFSA, the report questions whether these limits reflect current scientific understanding. Many thresholds are based on decades-old data, such as the EPA’s 1953 safety benchmark for DEHP.
The inconsistencies between regulatory bodies exacerbate concerns. For instance, while the EU has banned diisobutyl phthalate in food-contact materials, no safe daily exposure limit exists under FDA, EPA, or EFSA standards.
Real-World Impact of Plastic Chemicals
The study highlights the risks associated with plastic chemicals, particularly endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with hormonal systems even at low doses. The prevalence of these substances in everyday foods—including organic and premium products such as raw milk and farm-fresh beef—suggests that contamination is systemic.
Additionally, bottled water samples in glass and plastic showed similar contamination levels. Surprisingly, two bottled water brands exceeded FDA limits for DEHP, with one containing 217% more than the permitted level.
Implications for the Industry
The findings present significant challenges for food manufacturers, packaging suppliers, and distributors. With evidence mounting on the risks of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, regulators are likely to reassess existing safety standards, potentially leading to stricter compliance requirements.
