Suspected carcinogens detected in foam cups and boxes

A chemical used in Styrofoam cups, Styrofoam lunch boxes and other disposable food containers may cause cancer, scientists warn.

In its latest recommendation, the US National Research Council asserted that styrene, which is commonly found in Styrofoam cups, Styrofoam lunch boxes, and other disposable food containers, may be considered a human carcinogen. The conclusion was drawn by a group of 10 toxicology, chemical, and medical experts, based on their research and analysis.

However, Newsday quoted Dr. Jane Henney, the study's lead author, as emphasizing that this was the conclusion of a risk assessment process. Dr. Henney, who served as head of the US Food and Drug Administration under former President Bill Clinton, explained: "The statement means there is scientific evidence that styrene causes cancer, but there may be alternative explanations, such as chance, bias, or confounding factors."

The evidence on styrene is not as clear as the evidence on the dangers of tobacco, Mr. Henney added.

The new recommendation from the US National Research Council is consistent with the agency's warning three years ago, when concerns grew about a possible link between styrene and cancer.

However, the American Chemistry Council once defended styrene, stating: "Polystyrene plastic has been used in food-related products, such as foam coffee cups, foam lunch boxes, and cutlery, for more than five decades.

Polystyrene has been reviewed by regulatory agencies as being likely safe for use in contact with food. For example, polystyrene meets the strict standards of the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority of the European Commission for use in packaging for the storage and handling of food.

Earlier this month, British scientists raised the alarm that more than 170 dangerous chemicals, including styrene, are being legally used to make product packaging. The Food Packaging Forum added that the toxic substances, which have been found to cause cancer and trigger genetic mutations, could leach into the food they contain.

The study, published in the journal Food Additives and Contaminants, found about 175 chemicals with various effects. These substances affect sperm production, cause genital malformations and disrupt hormone production in the body. However, the European Food Standards Agency reassures consumers that all food packaging meets standards and that the presence of chemicals is not a concern if they are used within permitted limits.

According to vietnamnet