Overview

• The synthesis of hundreds of studies spotlights phthalates, bisphenols and PFAS in common items such as food packaging, cosmetics and paper receipts.
• Authors report links to hormone disruption, nervous system effects, reduced fertility and IQ loss, with possible associations to heart problems, ADHD, obesity and low birthweight.
• The review warns that chemicals and particles can migrate from products, including when plastics are microwaved, releasing micro- and nanoparticles that can be ingested.
• The team advises practical steps for families such as using glass or stainless steel and avoiding microwaving or dishwashing plastics, while noting plastics are indispensable in some medical devices.
• Germany’s environment agency says specific health risks from microplastics remain hard to quantify but likely harmful, and experts press for tighter rules after Geneva talks failed to secure binding production caps.