### Study Reveals Hidden Dangers in Recycled Plastic Products

A recent peer-reviewed study sparks significant concerns about the presence of toxic flame retardants in everyday consumer products made from recycled plastics. The alarming findings suggest that plastics initially used in electronics are being repurposed into items like sushi trays and cooking utensils, which could expose consumers to high levels of cancer-causing and hormone-disrupting chemicals.

Researchers tested 20 black plastic household products and discovered that 17 of them contained hazardous flame retardants. The highest contamination levels were identified in sushi trays, beaded necklaces, and kitchen utensils. Additionally, travel games, toys, and other household items were also found to have elevated levels of these dangerous chemicals. The disturbing results were published in Chemosphere by Toxic-Free Future in collaboration with Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

Megan Liu, science and policy manager at Toxic-Free Future and co-author of the study, warned about the risks associated with these chemicals. According to Liu, flame retardants can leach out of plastics and contaminate food and air in homes, posing significant risks, particularly for children. Notably, the chemicals are not strongly bound to the polymers, making it easier for them to migrate and cause exposure.

Flame retardants, traditionally used to enhance fire resistance in electronic devices, have found their way into recycled household products. Ramaswamy Nagarajan, a professor at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, emphasized the enduring presence of these harmful chemicals in recycled materials, highlighting the long-lasting nature of environmental contaminants.

Despite manufacturers' assurances that rigorous research and risk assessments ensure consumer safety, Erich Shea of the North American Flame Retardant Alliance noted that the study's conclusions were based solely on hazard potential and not on actual exposure levels or risks. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized certain flame retardants as persistent and toxic to both humans and the environment, with links to various health problems, including endocrine disruption, thyroid issues, reproductive complications, neurotoxicity, and cancers.

The study employed screening for bromine, a marker for brominated flame retardants, in 203 black plastic products. Subsequently, 20 items with the highest bromine levels underwent further testing. Disturbingly, 17 of these products had flame retardant levels ranging from 40 to 22,800 milligrams per kilogram, with some containing chemicals banned in the United States at levels significantly exceeding European Union limits.

The pervasive issue of contaminated plastics in everyday items raises questions about the efficacy of electronic waste recycling practices. Liu emphasized that without stringent federal regulation, manufacturers are likely to continue using these hazardous chemicals, making strong legislative action imperative. Although some states have acted to restrict flame retardants, comprehensive federal legislation remains necessary to address this growing concern.