Black plastic, commonly found in children’s toys, takeout containers, kitchen utensils, and grocery meat and produce trays, could be harboring dangerous levels of toxic flame retardants. A recent study reveals these substances may be leaching from electronic products during the recycling process, posing potential health risks.
According to lead study author Megan Liu, science and policy manager for Toxic-Free Future, a notable environmental advocacy group, some of the most alarming levels of flame retardants were discovered in black plastic pirate coin beads. These beads, often worn by children and resembling Mardi Gras beads, are primarily used for costume wear.
Understanding the presence of these hazardous materials in everyday items emphasizes the need for increased awareness and potential regulatory measures to protect public health, especially for vulnerable populations like children.
“That specific product contained up to 22,800 parts per million of total flame retardants—equivalent to nearly 3% of its weight,” explained Liu. “Children often engage with toys repeatedly over several days until they lose interest.”
Hazardous Flame Retardants in Everyday Items
The study uncovered that the most hazardous flame retardants present in everyday consumer products are the same as those used in the electronic enclosures of televisions and various other electronics, Liu noted.
Contamination from Electronic Waste
“It seems that the plastics utilized in manufacturing these consumer items became contaminated with flame retardants due to errors made during the recycling of electronic waste,” she stated.
In a surprising discovery, a common consumer product, a black plastic sushi tray, was found to contain a staggering 11,900 parts per million of the flame retardant known as decabromodiphenyl ether or decaBDE. This chemical belongs to a class of flame retardants called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs).
Health Implications of PBDEs
A study published in April 2024 revealed alarming findings: individuals with the highest blood levels of PBDEs faced a risk of dying from cancer that was approximately 300% higher compared to those with the lowest levels.
The Ban on DecaBDE
In response to these health concerns, the US Environmental Protection Agency fully banned decaBDE in 2021. This decision came after the chemical was linked to several serious health issues, including:
- Cancer
- Endocrine and thyroid disorders
- Fetal and child development problems
- Neurobehavioral function impairment
- Reproductive and immune system toxicity
Despite existing restrictions, the presence of decaBDE was detected in a staggering 70% of the samples tested. These levels ranged from five to an astonishing 1,200 times higher than the European Union’s stringent limit of 10 parts per million, according to Liu.
Exposure Through Kitchen Utensils
Researchers, focusing on the impact of contaminated black plastic kitchen utensils such as spatulas and slotted spoons, estimated that an individual could be exposed to an average of 34.7 parts per million of decaBDE daily. This exposure raises significant concerns about everyday household items.
Alarm from Experts
Toxicologist Linda Birnbaum, the former director of the National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences and the National Toxicology Program, expressed grave concerns: “It was especially alarming to discover flame retardants that are no longer supposed to be in use.” Her statement underscores the ongoing challenges in managing toxic substances in consumer products.
When it comes to everyday items, it’s wise to be cautious with certain materials. Birnbaum, although not part of the recent study, advises against using black plastic for food contact materials or purchasing toys that contain black plastic components. This recommendation stems from concerns about potential health risks associated with this material.
Flame Retardants in Electronic Devices
In today’s world, electronic devices are indispensable in our homes. According to the American Chemistry Council, the average household in the United States includes over 20 electronic gadgets. These range from televisions and smartphones to computers, gaming systems, and tablets. While these devices are crucial to our daily lives, they also pose potential safety risks. However, the use of flame retardants plays a significant role in mitigating these dangers, ensuring these devices do not become fire hazards.
Flame retardants are commonly used in various everyday items, including sofas, loveseats, recliners, office chairs, car upholstery, infant car seats, carpet padding, foam-padded yoga mats, and padded baby items. These chemicals are vital for increasing the safety of these products. However, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, flame retardants can “leach” out from these items, entering the air and eventually attaching to dust, food, and water, which might then be ingested.