Phthalates and Bisphenols in Food Containers Linked to Blood Levels

Your plastic habits are showing up in your blood

Researchers recently analyzed the blood of 39 women and found at least one plasticizer in every single participant. The study, published in Food and Chemical Toxicology, confirms that your everyday food-contact habits are directly shaping your internal chemical profile.

The data is clear: those who frequently use PET bottles, reuse plastic containers, and store or heat food in rigid plastic trays show significantly higher levels of phthalates like DEHP and DBP in their blood. These aren't just trace amounts. The study identified distinct exposure clusters, proving that the specific plastic containers you reach for in your kitchen are actively contributing to your total chemical burden.

How to lower your exposure

You don't need to panic, but you do need to swap. The evidence shows that the convenience of plastic storage comes at a cost to your health. The simplest way to break this cycle is to remove plastic from your food storage and heating routine entirely.

Start by ditching the plastic leftovers containers and PET water bottles. Switch to glass or stainless steel for anything that touches your food, especially if it's being heated or stored for long periods. We have curated a selection of non-toxic kitchen alternatives that allow you to store and carry food without the chemical leaching. It is a small change that makes a measurable difference in what you carry in your body.

Source: Di Bella G, Spanò IM, Potortì AG, Crisaulli C, Litrenta F (2026). Food Chem Toxicol.