How many plastic additives are in a baby's daily diet?
Some plastic additives can show up in everyday foods. A 2025 Journal of Hazardous Materials study found plasticizers in 85% of 109 food samples and a DEHP risk signal for infants from baby food consumption.
What this means
Plastic additives are chemicals added to plastic packaging so it bends, seals, or lasts longer. They are not part of the food recipe, but small amounts can move from packaging into food.
Babies eat more food for their size than adults. That is why small amounts can matter more for them.
What the research says
A 2025 study in J Hazard Mater tested 109 food samples. The researchers found plasticizers in 85% of the samples. Non-phthalate plasticizers showed up in baby foods and meat. DEHA was mainly linked to fresh food wrapped in plastic.
The study also estimated daily intake for infants, toddlers, and adults. For infants, the researchers found a DEHP hazard quotient signal tied to baby food consumption.
This does not mean every packaged food is dangerous. It does mean packaging can be one source of plastic additives in food.
What to do at home
Use glass or stainless steel for foods you make at home. Let hot foods cool before storing them. Do not microwave food in plastic. When buying baby food, choose simple foods with less packaging when you can.
Glass storage will not remove all exposure. It can cut down on extra plastic contact in your own kitchen.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic additives in the diet: Occurrence and dietary exposure in different population groups. | J Hazard Mater | 2025 |