WHAT PLASTIC IS DOING TO OUR HEALTH

It’s not just bad for the planet – we investigate the impact on our bodies

Plastic is everywhere – not just in toys and bottles, but in cling film wrapped around food and in non-stick coating on frying pans. It can even be found on many of the UK’s till receipts (making them non-recyclable). And the really bad news? It may be affecting your health.

WHAT’S THE RISK?

The health concern comes from the chemicals contained in plastic. Some of those, including Bisphenol A (BPA) – which studies have linked to a higher risk of heart disease, breast cancer and diabetes – can migrate into our bodies. Dr Margaret Wexler, head of science at the charity Breast Cancer UK, says that according to one study, BPA is estimated to be present in more than 93% of the US adult population. ‘The main route into our bodies is through our diet. It can leach into food and drink from plastic packaging, as well as being absorbed through our skin,’ she says.

But is the amount that migrates enough to pose a risk? In 2015, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) said that, at current exposure levels, there was insufficient evidence of adverse health effects of BPA. In the UK, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) agrees.

Yet, the debate about the dangers of plastic doesn’t end there. In fact, Breast Cancer UK is calling for a total ban on the use of BPA in all food and drink packaging. It says there is enough evidence.