A new study found toxic flame-retardant chemicals inadvertently contaminate a range of widely used plastic products, an occurrence researchers attribute to electronics recycling.
Scientists with Toxic-Free Future and Vrije Universiteit, a public research university in Amsterdam, published a study Tuesday that found “concerning” levels of the chemicals “in items with high exposure potential.” Items include food-contact products — such as a spatula and sushi tray — toys and other household objects made from black plastics.
It’s the first time researchers have found certain flame retardants in food-contact items sold in the U.S., according to Toxic-Free Future.
“These cancer-causing chemicals shouldn’t be used to begin with, but with recycling, they are entering our environment and our homes in more ways than one,” said Megan Liu, study co-author and Toxic-Free Future’s science and policy manager.
