Styrofoam Poison

Dow Chemical Company has trademarked Styrofoam, and its generic name is polystyrene. While Styrofoam is commonly used as an insulating product, polystyrene is used in the production of plastic products including cups, plates and bowls.

Styrene

Styrene, a building block in polystyrene, has been investigated as a health concern. The Environmental Protection Agency has classified styrene as a potential carcinogen, which means it may cause cancer.

Polystyrene Dishes

When consuming something off a product made with polystyrene, styrene can leak into the food, especially when warmed in a microwave. Passage is somewhat dependent on the food’s fat content -- the higher the fat, the more styrene escapes.

Styrofoam Consumption

Styrofoam is sometimes used in packaging products and craft projects. Parents of small children should know that, if their child eats Styrofoam, it is not toxic. The American Association of Poison Control Centers say Styrofoam is a choking hazard, not a poison risk.

Dogs

Styrofoam consumption is hazardous to dogs 2. Dogs cannot digest the product, and it can get trapped in the intestines.

Considerations

Small amounts of styrene consumption are believed to cause menstrual irregularities, thyroid troubles and low platelet counts. To lower any possible risks, use ceramic, glass or paper products for any food or beverage items when cooking, eating and storing.

Related Articles

  1. Can Kids Eat Rare Meat?
  2. Peppermint for Baby Colic
  3. Can Kids Eat Cashews?
  4. Can Kids Eat Clams?
  5. Nyquil Warnings
  6. Which Foods Can Cause Nasal Congestion?
  7. Allergic Reactions to Clorox Wipes
  8. Are Cooking Fumes Bad for Pregnant Moms?
  9. How to Cure Hemorrhoids in 48 Hours
  10. The Healthiest Types of Pasta
  11. Is Vick's Vapor Rub OK to Use While Pregnant?
  12. My Baby Coughs After Drinking Water
  13. Long-Term Effects of Nyquil
  14. Excessive Thirst in Toddlers
  15. Side Effects of Promensil
article divider
×