Claim: Black Plastics contain flame retardants which are carcinogens and can reduce one’s lifespan

Fact: True. But the study which has been used as the reference for this claim also adds that “further studies are needed to replicate these findings and determine the underlying mechanisms.”

An instagram video titled, “Stop Using Black Plastic – It’s Slowly Poisoning You”  has gone viral, garnering over 130 thousand likes.

“This is the most toxic and dangerous form of plastic which you might be using every single day – Black Plastic. They are made using carbon resin, a possible carcinogen. These black plastic containers are commonly used by restaurants to pack food and delivery services,” says the creator Adithya Nataraj. “Here’s the shocking part, some black plastics are made by recycling electronic waste like old remotes, TV’s and phones. This means that toxic chemicals including banned retardants could end up in your food.”

He continues: “When hot food is packed in these containers, harmful chemicals can leach directly into your food. These chemicals are known as endocrine disruptors, they affect your hormonal balance, fertility and even increase the risk of chronic disease. And don’t think that cold food is safe, chemicals still seep in over time.”

Nataraj cites a study that found a 300 percent increase in their risk of dying from cancer for people with highest levels of PBDEs in their blood.

He urges viewers to give up the use of  polythene: “Carry your own steel or glass containers whenever you want to pick up food, avoid frequent food delivery and try to dine in at restaurants instead. Get rid of all the unwanted black plastic containers in your kitchen and remember the more you depend on plastics the lesser your lifespan will be.”

What’s the truth?

The study cited by Nataraj in the video validates his claim. Published in JAMA Network in April 2024, the study examines if exposure to chemicals such as flame retardants in humans leads to early mortality. 

“In this nationally representative cohort study, PBDE (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers) exposure was significantly associated with an increased risk of cancer mortality. Further studies are needed to replicate the findings and determine the underlying mechanisms,” the research says. 

The European Food Safety Authority has banned flame retardants due to the risks it poses to public health. The UN Environment Programme has published a report in which they highlight flame retardants as a major concern. 

Another study and an article from National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences highlights that flame retardants are a category of endocrine disruptors, which can lead to an array of health issues. 

Flame retardants are also known carcinogens, as mentioned in this study:”Health concerns related to flame retardants (FRs) include carcinogenicity, endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, and reproductive and developmental toxicity.”

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry has even issued a public health statement cautioning the public against their use.

Also read: India Tops Cardiovascular Deaths from Plastic Exposure