SAN DIEGO — A new study is sparking concerns about harmful chemicals in many foods found in supermarkets and fast-food restaurants.
A new study by Consumer Reports found that two chemicals linked to various health risks are widespread among popular items. Shopping for organic food isn’t a surefire way to avoid these chemicals.
“I would say I’m not shocked that we’re finding these," said registered dietitian, Rachel Rothman.
The study found that the majority of food we buy contains phthalates and bisphenols – two chemicals linked to diseases like diabetes and hormone disruption.
“I think we are finding that these are more common than maybe we thought in the past," said Rothman, with Nutrition in Bloom.
Rothman has worked in the food industry for years and says what’s even more frustrating is that the chemicals are also found in organic and healthier food products.
“I wish there was an easy solution – well, just don’t buy this or just stay away from this. But unfortunately, that’s not where we are right now.”
Researchers found that 99% of grocery store foods and fast foods they tested contained phthalates.
Additionally, 79% of the food samples also contained bisphenol, an industrial chemical that’s used in plastic manufacturing.
“The study specifically looked at was BPA and phthalates which are two plasticizers, what they’re called. They’re basically a group of chemicals that are really used to make plastic more flexible and more durable," said Rothman.
Pre-packaged foods were found to have much higher chemical levels.
Boxed cheesy ravioli, sliced peaches, McDonald’s Quarter Pounder, Little Caesars pizza, and other fast-food items were among the foods tested by consumer reports.
The National Research Council has linked phthalates to reproductive disorders and genital abnormalities.
According to the Mayo Clinic, BPA has been linked to high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
The plastic chemicals can get into foods in various ways, according to the study.
“It could be the manufacturing, the plastic pipes that are used in the factories," added Rothman.
In 2023, the Food and Drug Administration rejected a petition that called for a ban on the use of phthalates in food packaging and food processing.
“We are well overdue for more regulations especially as we learn more and more about some of the issues that these chemicals can cause. If the FDA could step and make more regulations it could make a huge difference," said Rothman.
Researchers say it's hard to say exactly what levels of phthalates are considered safe in any product, but experts say it's clear that they can cause harm even at low levels.
Despite the findings of the study, Rothman adds that people don't need to panic and says the more studies that come out point to greater awareness of what's in our food products.
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