BOSTON, MA – A recent study conducted in Boston, Massachusetts revealed concerning levels of toxic flame retardants in black-colored plastic commonly found in everyday items like kitchen utensils, children’s toys, and takeout containers. The study, led by Toxic-Free Future, a prominent environmental advocacy group, found that these toxic chemicals may be leaching from electronic products during the recycling process.
Lead study author Megan Liu highlighted that one of the products with the highest levels of flame retardants was black plastic pirate coin beads, with staggering levels up to 22,800 parts per million. She emphasized that these flame retardants, widely used in electronic enclosures, could be mistakenly contaminating consumer products due to errors in the recycling of electronic waste.
Decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE), a flame retardant that was fully banned in 2021 due to its link to various health issues, was found in 70% of the samples tested, exceeding the European Union’s limits significantly. The study estimated that exposure to decaBDE from black plastic kitchen utensils could average around 34.7 parts per million per day, posing serious health risks to consumers.
Concerned researchers and toxicologists alike urged caution regarding the use of black plastics in food contact materials and toys. Dr. Linda Birnbaum, a well-known toxicologist, advised against using black plastic items for food-related purposes, given the potential health hazards associated with these toxic flame retardants.
The study also highlighted the importance of proper disposal and recycling practices to avoid unnecessary exposure to harmful chemicals present in electronic waste. The North American Flame Retardant Alliance stressed the essential role flame retardants play in preventing fire-related incidents and emphasized their crucial contribution to public safety.
While consumers can take certain measures to minimize their exposure to flame retardants, experts urged policymakers to implement stricter regulations on the use of these harmful chemicals in consumer products. The study’s findings underscore the need for government and corporate policies that prioritize public health and environmental safety in recycling practices.