Phthalates, bisphenols and per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances migration from food packaging into food: a systematic review

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are commonly found in food due to their migration from plastic packaging. Despite their functional benefits, these additives can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to several adverse health outcomes. This review aims to examine the migration of phthalates, bisphenols, and per-and-polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from plastic food packaging into food substances. Six electronic databases were systematically screened for observational, case reports, or experimental studies investigating any food for human consumption exposed to food packaging. Sixty-seven studies, including 5,378 samples, were included. Phthalates and bisphenols consistently migrated from food packaging. PFAS migration was also detected but too few studies were published to draw conclusions. Migration rates were influenced by factors such as temperature, exposure time, and food composition, with high-fat or acidic foods leading to higher migration rates. Based on a standard Western Diet, 713.8 µg of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, 347.7 µg of di-n-butyl phthalate, 17.3 µg of butyl-benzyl phthalate, 35,250 µg of di-iso-decyl phthalate, and 65.4 µg of other plasticizers, totaling 36,349.2 µg, could be consumed from food packaging daily. However, these estimates may not be generalizable to other dietary patterns, such as Mediterranean or plant-based diets. Further research into low migration or safer alternative to current plasticizers, alongside regulatory efforts considering potential exposure via food contact materials may help reduce risks associated with endocrine-disrupting chemicals in food packaging.