Poison On The Plate? How Food Packaging Chemicals Could Put You At The Risk Of Breast Cancer

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What's the first thing you do when your stomach growls in hunger but you are in no mood to cook something up at home? Order of course! And voila your comfort food will be right at your doorstep. If not, you might head to the nearby supermarket to grab a packaged delicacy that would satisfy your cravings. In any case, when you open your sealed and packaged plastic containers with baited breath, little do you realise there is danger lurking around that favourite dish. Curious to know what that is?

Here's what a recent study by coauthor Jane Muncke, managing director and chief scientific officer at the Food Packaging Forum, a nonprofit foundation based in Zurich, Switzerland, that focuses on science communication and research says. Apparently 200 chemicals linked to breast cancer are utilised in the production of food packaging and plastic tableware and as we indulge in our favourites in hunger, dozens of carcinogens take refuge in our body through these packaged foods and the plastic cutlery we use.

What experts have to say - As per Jane Muncke, about 76 known or potential breast carcinogens from food contact materials are purchased all over the world and are found in human bodies. And out of the recently detected chemicals, 40 are already spotted as hazardous by regulatory agencies in the world.

Jenny Kay, a research scientist at Silent Spring Institute pointed out that though many of these chemicals have been classified as health hazards, they are still permitted to be used in food contact materials which then goes into the food we eat.

The Harmful Chemicals - A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Toxicology, compared Silent Springs database of potential breast carcinogens for breast cancer with the list of chemicals detected in food contact materials to discover which potential breast carcinogens could be getting into the diets of people. It was the perfect way to pick out the hazardous chemicals for regulatory action.

Chemicals such as benzene, a carcinogen linked to breast cancers, 4,4'-Methylenebis-(2-Chloroaniline) linked to bladder cancer and 2,4-Toluenediamine were found to trigger breast and other cancers in animals. Known as forever chemicals, because they don't break down in the environment, PFAs caused a rising concern because they are used in food packaging, food wrappers, beverage cups and also in the ink that is used to print logos on food containers.

The Solution - Though most of the carcinogens were found in plastic, a study has found that 89 carcinogens were suspected to be discovered in paper and cardboard containers as well. Dyes that are used in paper, cardboard and the like usually have some pretty hazardous properties too. So if these studies have found a problem what is the solution? By all means, regulatory authorities need to take necessary measures to protect the food supply and should offer continuous safety analysis and regulation of approved substances.

As a consumer, one should take steps to avoid burning or charring food that is grilled at high temperatures, Discard the fat and skin from meat and fish before you cook, Avoid canned foods as much as you can, as they are not completely BPA free. Store and microwave foods in glass bottles rather than plastic containers. Say no to non-stick pans and replace your bottles with stainless steel.

Breast cancer is already on the rise for women under 50, and there is no specific reason as to what causes it. There are a lot of factors that contribute to it, and it can't be blamed on genetics alone. All we can do is, do what it takes to make our life healthy, safe and environment-friendly and reduce the risk of toxic carcinogens into our bodies.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.