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The toxicity theory surrounding black plastic cookware is an increasingly widespread reality, as many of these products are made from recycled plastic -from electronic waste- which could make them potentially hazardous to health by releasing harmful chemicals into food.
In December 2024, a study published in the journal Chemosphere concluded that some products made from recycled black plastic, such as cookware, could contain dangerous levels of brominated flame retardants and organophosphates. These substances, used to prevent fires, are often found in electronic products and can be harmful to health.
Judith Enck, former official of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and current director of Beyond Plastics, warns that black plastic is present in most U.S. kitchens. Its presence is not accidental: this material is made from recycled plastic waste, much of which comes from electronic devices.
A recent analysis by Toxic-Free Future found that 17 of the 20 black plastic products they tested, representing 85%, contained brominated and organophosphate flame retardants. These substances are known to have negative health effects, and are released when they come into contact with heat, such as that experienced by cookware during use.
Although a direct link between exposure to these substances and specific health problems has not yet been established, previous studies have linked flame retardants to cancer and hormone disruption. However, much research remains to be done on the specific risks of the daily use of these products in the kitchen.
What to do?
Opting for utensils made of safer materials such as wood or silicone, as well as avoiding the use of recycled plastics from dubious sources could be a good option to protect our health.
