Plastic toxicity is a growing concern in our world today, as the widespread use of plastic has led to an increase in plastic waste and exposure to plastic in the environment.
While the dangers of plastic exposure are well known, it is important to note that not all plastic exposure is created equal.
The toxicity of plastic exposure depends on several factors, including the levels of fat content, acidity, exposure time, and surface contact.
In this blog post, we will discuss these factors and how they contribute to the toxicity of plastic exposure.
Watch on TikTok
Fat Content: Fat content refers to the amount of fat present in the environment where plastic is exposed. Plastic that is exposed to high levels of fat, such as in food packaging, can release harmful chemicals such as PFAs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) into the food or drink contained within the packaging. PFAs are a group of chemicals that are known to be harmful to human health, and their presence in the food and drink we consume can have serious health consequences.
Acidity: Acidity refers to the level of acidity in the environment where plastic is exposed. Plastic that is exposed to high levels of acid, such as in tomatoes in a Can, will break down more quickly and release more toxic substances, including PFAs, into the food itself. This can have serious consequences for both human health and the environment.
Exposure Time: Exposure time refers to the length of time that plastic is exposed to the environment. The longer the exposure time, the more toxic substances will be released from the plastic. For example, the longer a block of cheese is wrapped in PVC cling film, the more chemicals leach into it.
Surface Contact: Surface contact refers to the amount of surface area that plastic is exposed to. Plastic that is in direct contact with a surface will release more toxic substances compared to plastic that is not in direct contact with a surface. This is because surface contact can cause plastic to break down more quickly and release harmful chemicals, such as PFAs, into the environment.
In conclusion, not all plastic exposure is equal, and the toxicity of plastic exposure depends on several factors, including fat content, acidity, exposure time, and surface contact. By understanding these factors, individuals can take steps to reduce their exposure to toxic plastic substances and protect their health.
Sources:
- "Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in food packaging and food." Food Additives & Contaminants: Part A, vol. 36, no. 8, 2019, pp. 1098–1117., doi:10.1080/19440049.2019.1597083.
- "Environmental Exposure to Microplastics and Human Health." Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 54, no. 15, 2020, pp. 8993–9015., doi:10.1021/acs.est.0c03147.
