If you eat out a lot, you’re exposed to dangerous chemicals linked to cancer

For most of us, dining out in restaurants is a treat – but people who enjoy a lot of restaurant meals might be consuming a side order they didn’t ask for.

New research has shown that people who eat out more are exposed to more phthalates – chemicals known to disrupt hormones in humans and are linked to a long list of health problems including cancer and ADHD.

Researchers from George Washington University found that people who ate out regularly had phthalate levels 35% higher than people who mostly ate at home.

Phthalates are often found in food packaging and processing materials.

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Lead author Ami Zota of George Washington University said, ‘This study suggests food prepared at home is less likely to contain high levels of phthalates, chemicals linked to fertility problems, pregnancy complications and other health issues.

‘Our findings suggest that dining out may be an important, and previously under-recognized source of exposure to phthalates for the U.S. population.’