A Recent Study on Black Plastic Products Reveals Toxic Chemicals, But with a Math Error
A recent study published in the peer-reviewed journal Chemosphere recommended that toxic chemicals in black plastic products be immediately thrown away. The study, conducted by experts from the nonprofit Toxic-Free Future, detected flame retardants and other toxic chemicals in 85% of 203 items made of black plastic, including kitchen utensils, take-out containers, children’s toys, and hair accessories.
Math Error Overstated Risks
The study initially stated that the potential exposure to chemicals found in one of the kitchen utensils approached the minimum levels the Environmental Protection Agency deemed a health risk. However, an update to the study revealed a math error that significantly overstated the risks of contamination. The error was discovered by Joe Schwarcz, director of McGill University’s Office for Science and Society in Canada.
Corrected Findings
According to Schwarcz, the Toxin-Free Future scientists miscalculated the lower end of what the EPA considered a health risk through a multiplication error. Instead of humans being potentially exposed to a dose of toxic chemicals in black plastic utensils near the minimum level that the EPA deems a health risk, it’s actually about one-tenth of that.
Authors Stand by Conclusions
Despite the math error, the authors of the study are standing by their conclusions and warn against using black plastic products. "The math error does not impact the study’s findings, conclusions or recommendations," said Megan Liu, a co-author of the study who is the science and policy manager for Toxic-Free Future. She added that any traces of flame retardants or toxic chemicals in cooking utensils should be concerning for the public.
How to Identify Harmful Products
It’s nearly impossible to know whether a black plastic product is contaminated, as these products that include recycled e-waste don’t disclose a detailed list of all ingredients and contaminants in the product. However, Liu shared some guidance on how to identify harmful products:
- Look for the recycling symbol (chasing arrows logo) on the product.
- Check the number within the logo, which stands for the type of plastic used. The study found higher levels of toxic flame retardants in polystyrene plastic, which is labeled with the number 6.
Safer Alternatives
The safest nontoxic material options for kitchen utensils are wood and stainless steel.
Conclusion
The study highlights the need for greater transparency and regulation in the production and use of black plastic products. While the math error in the study is concerning, the authors’ warnings about the potential health risks associated with these products are still valid. Consumers should be aware of the potential risks and consider alternatives to black plastic products.
FAQs
Q: What are flame retardants?
A: Flame retardants are chemicals added to products to prevent them from igniting or spreading fires.
Q: How do flame retardants get into black plastic products?
A: Flame retardants are present in recycled electronic waste, which is often used to make black plastic products.
Q: What are the health risks associated with flame retardants?
A: Exposure to flame retardants has been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, neurological damage, and reproductive issues.
Q: What can I do to reduce my exposure to flame retardants?
A: Avoid using black plastic products, opt for safer alternatives like wood and stainless steel, and support policies that promote the use of safer materials.
