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Impact of Plastics on Health

  • October 07, 2019
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Plastics are everywhere! Plastics have revolutionized the kitchen.

The medical industry has also greatly improved due to the incorporation of plastics across a whole range of uses.

What are plastics after-all?

They are synthetic materials derived from petrochemicals and are convenient but non-biodegradable materials.

Why then do plastics always end up in headlines for all the wrong reasons?

  • Plastics not only pose a threat to the environment, but they also pose a health risk to consumers and safety issues during their manufacture.
  • Plastics are known to emit harmful chemicals, some of which can migrate from the plastic packing to the foods, especially when foods are greasy, and pose serious health problems.
  • Babies and young children are exposed to these chemicals in more ways than adults and may also have higher exposures than adults.
  • Chemicals from plastics can cause:
  • Pregnancy-induced hypertension
  • May reduce the effectiveness of vaccines in children
  • Bisphenol A found in water-bottles may cause early onset of puberty, obesity, and diabetes, among other issues.
  • Tetrafluroethelyne of non-stick coating of cookware can cause breathing difficulties.
  • Phthalates found in plastics are linked to diseases like cancer.

The health impact of plastics can be reduced by finding alternatives to plastic products whenever possible.

Some suggestions are:

  • Buy food in glass or metal containers
  • Avoid heating food in plastic containers
  • Do not give young children plastic teethers or toys
  • Use natural fiber clothing, bedding and furniture

Judicious use of plastics can help minimise health risks.

Developed by Scientific Angle brought to you by Health Meter Services

Disclaimer: Don’t follow any suggestions in this article without consulting a qualified doctor

References:

1. Adverse health effects of plastics https://ecologycenter.org/factsheets/adverse-health-effects-of-plastics/

2. Eco-watch: These toxic chemicals in food packaging are getting into your meals https://www.ecowatch.com/toxic-chemicals-in-food-packaging-2579496225.htmlz
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