A recent study published in Chemosphere has raised alarms about toxic chemicals lurking in black plastic household items, such as utensils, toys, and food containers, which could pose serious health risks.
The research, led by Megan Liu of the US-based environmental advocacy group Toxic-Free-Future, found that 85% of tested black plastic items contained flame-retardant chemicals, many of which are linked to cancer, hormonal imbalance, and nerve damage.
“We purchased 203 black plastic items, including kitchen utensils and toys, and found flame retardants in 17 of the 20 most contaminated samples,” Liu said.
The study highlighted that these chemicals, often originating from recycled electronics like old TV casings, find their way into everyday objects due to insufficient checks on recycled materials. Decabromodiphenyl Ether (DecaBDE), a banned flame retardant in Europe, was among the harmful substances detected.
The risks extend beyond utensils to children’s toys, such as plastic cars and pirate coins, and even common food containers like sushi trays. These items can leach toxic substances into food or saliva, further amplifying exposure.
Experts emphasize the need for systemic changes in plastic governance, such as stricter recycling protocols and chemical bans, to mitigate these risks. Bethanie Carney Almroth, an ecotoxicology researcher, stressed that individual efforts, like using wooden utensils or avoiding reheating food in black plastic, can help reduce exposure but are not enough.
“People should support broader shifts in product design and regulation to ensure safer alternatives,” Carney Almroth added.
