Consumer Reports Says Presence of Plastics in Food is ‘Widespread’
YONKERS, New York – Consumer Reports, a non-profit consumer group, has issued a startling report revealing that plastics are widespread in our food. The group has called on regulators to reevaluate the safety of plastics that come into contact with food production.
The unsettling findings indicate that out of 85 supermarket foods and fast food items recently tested, 84 of them contained plasticizers known as phthalates. Phthalates are chemical compounds used to increase the durability of plastic. The group has warned that these substances can disrupt the production and regulation of hormones, including estrogen, and pose significant health risks. These risks include birth defects, cancer, diabetes, infertility, neurodevelopmental disorders, obesity, and other serious health issues.
Consumer Reports’ testing revealed that Annie’s Organic Cheesy Ravioli had the highest level of phthalates, measuring at 53,579 nanograms per serving. Del Monte sliced peaches and Chicken of the Sea pink salmon also recorded elevated levels of the substances.
Furthermore, popular products such as Cheerios, Gerber baby food, and Yoplait yogurt, as well as various burgers, nuggets, and fries from Wendy’s, Burger King, and McDonald’s, were found to contain high levels of phthalates.
James Rogers, the product safety testing manager at Consumer Reports, emphasized the need for action, stating, That tells us that, as widespread as these chemicals are, there are ways to reduce how much is in our foods.
The group is urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, along with other regulatory agencies, to conduct a much-needed and essential reassessment of the risks posed by plasticizers in our food.
Interestingly, Polar raspberry lime seltzer was the only product tested that did not contain any phthalates.
This alarming report should serve as a wake-up call for consumers and regulators alike. The presence of plastics in our food poses a significant concern for public health. The call for action from Consumer Reports emphasizes the urgency of addressing this issue.
As a global audience, we must all be aware and take steps to minimize our exposure to these potential harmful substances. It is crucial that regulators prioritize the reassessment of plasticizers to ensure the safety of our food.
In conclusion, the Consumer Reports investigation has shed light on the widespread presence of plastics, particularly phthalates, in our food. The report serves as a stern reminder that action must be taken to protect consumer health and well-being. By raising awareness and demanding regulatory action, we can work towards reducing the presence of plastics in our food and safeguarding our future generations.
