It is generally accepted that paper utensils are an environmentally friendly replacement for dangerous plastic ones, but it turned out that the harm from it is no less. This conclusion was reached by Belgian scientists, writes the Daily Mail.
Experts tested 39 brands of straws for the presence of a group of synthetic chemicals known as poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances – PFAS. They were found in most of the samples tested, but the largest number was observed in tubes made from bamboo and paper. These synthetic chemicals are potentially hazardous to human health, wildlife and the environment, they degrade extremely slowly and can be stored for thousands of years.
PFAS has been linked to a number of health problems, including poor response to vaccines, low birth weight, thyroid disease, high cholesterol, liver damage, kidney cancer, and testicular cancer.
Scientists also do not cease to remind about the dangers of plastic products, especially dishes. They note that when plastic containers are used improperly, along with food or water, bisphenol A, which negatively affects the human immune, reproductive and endocrine systems, as well as phthalates, can enter the body. At the same time, bottled water and carbonated drinks that have been stored in containers for a long time carry the greatest danger. Drinking liquid from old plastic containers can lead to cancer. Also, chemicals contained in plastic can cause allergies, infertility, diseases of the cardiovascular and reproductive systems, obesity and diabetes, scientists say, plus-one.ru writes.
Source: Rosbalt
Mario Twitchell is an accomplished author and journalist, known for his insightful and thought-provoking writing on a wide range of topics including general and opinion. He currently works as a writer at 247 news agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
