Evidence for widespread human exposure to food contact chemicals

A recent study published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology highlights widespread human exposure to food contact chemicals (FCCs). The research identified over 1,800 FCCs that can migrate from food contact materials into food, with many posing potential health risks due to their hazardous properties. The study systematically reviewed data from various biomonitoring programs and exposome databases, revealing that approximately 25% of known FCCs (3,601) have been detected in human samples. Among these, 194 FCCs were specifically monitored in biomonitoring studies, with 80 classified as having high hazard properties. The findings underscore significant gaps in toxicity data for many FCCs, complicating risk assessments. The study emphasizes the need for improved regulations and safety assessments of FCCs to mitigate human exposure and enhance public health. An interactive dashboard, FCChumon, has been developed to provide policymakers and researchers with access to this data, facilitating informed decisions regarding food contact materials.

- Over 1,800 food contact chemicals (FCCs) can migrate into food, with many having hazardous properties.

- Approximately 3,601 FCCs have been detected in human samples, with 194 monitored in biomonitoring studies.

- 80 of the detected FCCs are classified as having high hazard properties.

- Significant gaps exist in toxicity data for many FCCs, complicating risk assessments.

- An interactive dashboard (FCChumon) has been created to aid policymakers and researchers in addressing FCC safety.