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A U.S. study testing the levels of chemical contaminants in the urine of two groups of families, found that exposure to the chemicals may go far beyond what scientists have assumed. Even when participants consumed only organic foods prepared and stored in non-plastic containers, exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates was significant. Previous studies have shown that phthalates and bisphenol A disrupt the endocrine systems of animals and humans and cause other health problems such as hyperactivity, anxiety, and depression in girls. "Current information we give families” – on plastic bottle labels and personal care products – “may not be enough to reduce exposures," said the lead author on the study.
"Unexpected results in a randomized dietary trial to reduce phthalate and bisphenol A exposures", Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, February 27, 2013
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As the horsemeat scandal continues to rock Europe, Nestlé announced that tests on nine processed beef products available in the U.K. – including products from the Jenny Craig weight-loss brand – had found no equine contamination. The company had earlier withdrawn beef and pasta products in Italy, Spain and France because it found traces of horsemeat. Meanwhile, the U.K.’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) said it will launch DNA testing next week of beef-based foods sold pre-packed or loose, including sandwiches, beef dripping, stock cubes, steak, stewing steak and ready meals that contain beef that is not minced. Officials in Parliament said various meat-based dishes had been withdrawn from eateries used by members, peers and staff.
"Nestlé UK products test negative for horsemeat", The Guardian, February 19, 2013
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