They also referenced the fact that the toxins had previously been found in products in Europe.
“Two previous studies from Europe that focused on indoor products reported high concentrations of short-chain chlorinated paraffins in hand blenders and baking oven doors,” they added.
The study found that the highest concentrations of chlorinated paraffins were detected in headphones and computer wires, with the next highest concentrations were in toys and toy packaging.
These uses can lead to human exposure through direct hand contact, mouthing of products by young children, and through contaminated dust making its way from hands to mouths.
Co-author Arlene Blum, executive director of the Green Science Policy Institutec, added: “Chlorinated paraffins are very harmful and widespread in everyday products, but they are flying under the radar. Many of their uses are unnecessary and should be stopped immediately for healthier people and ecosystems.”
Since the tested products were largely manufactured for an international market, the scientists believe chlorinated paraffins are also likely to be found in similar products in Europe, the US and other parts of the world.
