A new peer-reviewed study has detected dangerous hormone-disrupting chemicals in breast milk samples from mothers in Seattle, raising concerns about infant health. The research found substances including BPA, BPS, melamine, cyanuric acid, and triclosan, which can interfere with hormones critical for newborn development.
Study Findings
Approximately 92% of the 50 samples tested contained at least one antimicrobial or plasticizer. The same samples had previously shown potentially harmful levels of PFAS “forever chemicals” and flame retardants, also known endocrine disruptors.
Ryan Babadi, lead author and senior scientist at Toxic Free Future, called the chemical cocktail “concerning for a number of reasons.” He emphasized that infants and children are the most vulnerable to health effects due to their rapid development stages orchestrated by the endocrine system.
Chemical Presence
- BPA found in 74% of samples
- BPS found in 78% of samples
- Triclosan found in 62% of samples
- Melamine found in 92% of samples
BPA and BPS are linked to developmental and reproductive harms, with BPS associated with lower weight in young children. BPA is linked to impaired neurodevelopment, asthma, and obesity. While research on mixtures of these chemicals is limited, some studies suggest links to lower birth weight and size.
Breastfeeding Still Recommended
Despite the findings, Babadi stressed that breastfeeding remains the healthiest choice for infants when possible, as it is the most nutritious and generally safest option. Many of the same chemicals are also found in formula. However, the results highlight a “widespread, systemic problem” due to extensive use of these compounds and regulatory failures.
Sources of Chemicals
Endocrine disruptors are commonly added to everyday products. Antimicrobial triclosan appears in personal care items, while plasticizers like melamine, BPA, and BPS are used in packaging resins, plastic formation, and UV protection.
Regulatory Concerns
The study’s release coincides with the Trump EPA’s efforts to roll back chemical regulations, including limits on toxic substances in consumer goods and water. Babadi warned that weakening protections would worsen exposures and harm children, adults, workers, and communities.
Study limitations include a small sample size and a participant group that is more educated and higher-income. Some compounds were below WHO tolerable daily intake levels but still at levels shown to cause disease in previous research.
Babadi noted that while avoiding plastic can help, chemicals are so ubiquitous that individuals “cannot shop their way out of this.” Stronger policies are needed to protect public health.
