I would wager that most kitchens in Montana probably have a black spatula or two in their drawer.

After all, I think they're sold at almost every cooking store!

Listen up if you're like most Americans and have one of these utensils lying around!

According to a new study published in the journal Chemosphere, commonly used kitchen utensils may be leeching harmful levels of toxic chemicals into your food.

Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Kitchen Products

A study on the toxic chemicals in everyday kitchen products was published on October 1st 2024.

The study looked at 203 different consumer products and examined them for harmful substances.

They specifically examined two flame retardants: brominated flame retardants (BFRs) and organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs).

Shockingly, the study found that flame retardants were detected in about 85% of the tested products.

The highest levels were found in a sushi tray, a plastic spatula, and a beaded necklace intended for children.

The thing to remember is that deca-BDE is banned in the U.S.

Before the ban, it was primarily used in electronics and was detected in many kitchen utensils examined.

The Dangers of Deca-BDE Exposure

A review published in Environment International in 2024 highlighted the dangers of BDE-209, the specific form of deca-BDE detected in the study.

According to the study, exposure to this chemical can cause reproductive and developmental issues, as well as overall general toxicity in the body.

BDE-209 has also been linked to neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption, and an increased risk of cancer.

Read Next: Toxic Chemical Clean-Up Now Underway At Malmstrom Launch Facilities

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