Black plastic kitchen utensils may leach toxic chemicals

Experts are raising concerns regarding the use of black plastic kitchen utensils, such as spatulas and ladles, due to the potential for chemical leaching. Research suggests that the primary risk stems from the use of unregulated recycled plastics in these products.

Dr. Li Li, an assistant professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, specializing in environmental chemistry, notes that while certain plastics like polypropylene (PP) are generally considered safe for high heat, recycled plastics may contain harmful additives. Specifically, flame retardants like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)—which are added to non-food plastics to prevent ignition—can be present in recycled materials used for kitchenware. When these utensils are exposed to heat during cooking, these toxic chemicals may be released into food.