Environmental organizations are increasingly highlighting the numerous health risks associated with phthalates, leading to a rise in consumer awareness and concern over the use of plastic packaging in processed food and beverage products.

The use of phthalates in plastic packaging is facing increased scrutiny due to a growing body of research that underscores significant health risks linked to these chemicals, observers GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. This concern has led to legal action by environmental organizations such as Earthjustice and the Environmental Defense Fund against the FDA over its alleged refusal to address regulation concerning the issue.

One notable health risk associated with plastics is their propensity to absorb flavors, colors, and odors, which consequently raises concerns about the potential leaching of harmful chemicals into food and beverage products packaged with this material.

Chris Rowland, Packaging Consultant and Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The European Union has implemented a ban or imposed restrictions on certain phthalate compounds that come into contact with food, a regulatory move adopted by other nations such as the United Kingdom and Canada. To future-proof their packaging capabilities, FMCG companies could explore innovative alternatives, including paper or plant-based materials, regardless of lagging regulation in the US. While initially this shift may entail higher costs, the growing consumer awareness of health risks associated with plastic packaging, coupled with a rising preference for sustainable packaging solutions and the tightening of global regulations on plastic packaging use, suggests that a failure to adapt could lead to a long-term competitive disadvantage.”

Physical health and fitness concerns could be impacting packaging choices

According to the latest consumer survey by GlobalData for Q4 2024, nearly half of global consumers (47%) are "extremely" or "quite" concerned about their physical fitness and health.
www.globaldata.com

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