Potentially harmful chemicals that were banned from children’s teething rings and toys a decade ago. But it is still be present in high concentrations in your child’s favorite meal- macaroni and cheese mixes made with powdered cheese. 

A new analysis published found high concentrations of the chemicals known as phthalates in the cheese powder of macaroni and cheese. Phthalates linked to genital birth defects in infant boys and learning and behavior problems in older children. 

The small study evaluated 30 different cheese products which included natural cheese products, including block or string cheese, as well as processed cheese slices and the cheese powder found in boxed macaroni and cheese. The analysis found evidence of the chemical in 29 of the 30 products tested. Natural cheeses had the lowest levels of the chemical, while processed cheese products had the highest levels.

What are phthalates?

Phthalates are a family of chemical compounds primarily used to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or vinyl flexible and pliant. Phthalates are used in hundreds of products in our homes, hospitals, cars and businesses. There are many types of phthalates, which are DBP (di-n-butyl phthalate), DEP (diethyl phthalate), DEHP (di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate or bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate), BzBP (benzylbutyl phthalate), and DMP (dimethyl phthalate).

What now?

There are few regulation regarding harmful chemicals. So consumer should take matters into their own hands by avoiding types products containing phthalates.  

1.      Avoid use of fragrances

2.      Eat organic

3.      Don’t use plastic toys

Source: KleanUpKraft.org,  The New York Times, cnn.com, chemicalsafetyfacts.org, huffingtonpost.com, theguardian.com