Cancer in your kitchen? Black colored products could be to blame

Recent studies have revealed a disturbing presence of decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE) at hazardous levels, in a wide range of consumer products.

DecaBDE is a cancer causing flame retardant which was found in black colored kitchen cookware according to a study done in 2024.

Ban on DecaBDE

This substance was banned by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in 2021 yet was still found to be present in 70% of the products that were tested.

DecaBDE is a type of brominated flame retardant commonly used in products like electronics, furniture, textiles, and even kitchenware to prevent fires. However, it has come under scrutiny due to its classification as a persistent organic pollutant and its potential carcinogenic effects.

DecaBDE has been linked to hormone disruption, developmental issues, and an increased risk of cancer, making its widespread use in household items a growing public health concern.

The contamination of everyday products like cooking utensils, bakeware, and food storage containers with decaBDE is particularly alarming. As these items are exposed to heat and wear over time, they can release harmful chemicals into the air and food, posing significant health risks. Despite efforts to regulate toxic flame retardants, decaBDE remains in use due to its effectiveness in reducing flammability. However, the long-term consequences of its presence in products that come into direct contact with food and the human body are becoming increasingly clear, prompting calls for more stringent regulations and safer alternatives.

What to use instead

Fortunately, there are safer, non-toxic alternatives to decaBDE that manufacturers can use to reduce fire risks without compromising consumer health. Silicone, for example, is a non-toxic, heat-resistant material that is increasingly being used in kitchenware and baking products. Similarly, manufacturers can turn to phosphate-based flame retardants, which are less harmful and more easily broken down in the environment. As awareness grows about the dangers of decaBDE, the shift toward safer materials in consumer products becomes necessary for public health.