Summary
A database called PlasticList found high levels of plastic chemicals, specifically phthalates, in several fast food items from major U.S. chains. These chemicals, often found in plastic packaging, can get into food and potentially harm human health. Calls to ban these chemicals have increased, but they are not yet banned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Key Facts
- Fast food items were found to contain a high concentration of phthalates, a type of plastic chemical.
- Phthalates can enter food through contact with plastic packaging and are linked to health issues.
- Taco Bell's Cantina Chicken Burrito had notably high levels of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP).
- DEHP can increase cancer and birth defect risks, and was one of the highest found in Taco Bell's item.
- McDonald's Quarter Pounder with cheese also had high levels of other phthalates like DIBP and DEHT.
- Burger King's Whopper with cheese contained the highest levels of DEHT on the database.
- These chemicals are not currently banned by the FDA, despite concerns over their health effects.
- Researchers and organizations are calling for these chemicals to be banned from food products.
