I recently learned that the microwave popcorn I eat can contain harmful cancer-causing nonstick chemicals. They come from the nonstick coating inside the bag. Yuck!
After more research, I found out these harmful nonstick coatings are in many food wrappers and packages, like butter wrappers, french fry boxes and cupcake wrappers. These chemicals are the same industrial chemicals used to make carpeting stain-proof and clothing water-proof. Why are they used near and in my food?!
According to a study of the chemicals in 600 American kids, every single kid had nonstick chemicals in their bodies. What’s worse is that the nonstick chemicals that don’t get into food, get into the environment when the popcorn bag or muffin wrapper is thrown away or composted. These chemicals have already been detected in drinking water and waterways in the state. Scientists say these chemicals don’t breakdown, which means they’re going to be with us a very long time.
The Legislature can do something about this problem. They can ban the use of nonstick chemicals in food packaging by passing The Healthy Food Packaging Act (HB 2658/SB 6396). I urge Sen. Steve Hobbs and Reps. John Lovick and Mark Harmsworth to make sure this important bill passes. Chemicals that can make us sick and pollute the environment shouldn’t be in food packaging or our food, especially when alternatives are available.
Lindsey Smith
Marysville
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