Consumer Reports is once again calling on General Mills to address the issue of plastic chemicals in its food products. The advocacy group recently delivered a petition signed by over 30,000 people urging the company to take action.
What are Plastic Chemicals and Why are They a Concern?
Plastic chemicals, also known as plasticizers, are used to make plastics more flexible and resilient. However, studies have linked them to a range of potential health risks, including interference with hormone production, birth defects, and increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.
General Mills Products Found to Contain Plastic Chemicals
Consumer Reports tested 85 different foods earlier this year and found the highest levels of phthalates, a commonly used plasticizer, in a plastic canned product made by Annie's Homegrown, an organic brand owned by General Mills. Other General Mills brands found to contain the chemicals include Yoplait, Cheerios, Green Giant, and Progresso.
What is General Mills Doing?
General Mills maintains that all its products meet regulatory requirements and that they regularly review ingredients, packaging, and suppliers. However, they haven't provided a specific plan to address the presence of plastic chemicals in their products.
How Can Consumers Reduce Exposure?
While plastic chemicals are nearly impossible to avoid completely, consumers can take steps to limit exposure, including using glass instead of plastic storage containers and water bottles and supporting stricter regulations on the use of plastic chemicals in food production.
The Need for Regulatory Action
Consumer Reports and other advocates are urging the FDA to establish stricter regulations on the use of plastic chemicals in food production. Currently, the FDA allows nine phthalates to be used in food production, but there are no clear guidelines for monitoring or limiting their presence in food.
