In 2011, styrene monomer was listed as �reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen� by the National Toxicology Program (NTP).  There is also concern that the styrene dimers and trimers may potentially mimic the physiological effects of estrogen.  As a result, the FDA is updating its safety review of styrene and it's oligomers in common polystyrene food packaging and foods in contact with styrene based containers.  Twenty-five different food packaging products were chosen for analysis including disposable and reusable cups, bowls, and utensils along with packaging associated with styrofoam trays, take-out containers, and food products.  Additionally foods in contact with these packaging materials were also analyzed for their styrene monomer and oligomer content.  Preliminary results indicate that residual monomer concentrations in food packaging products are well below the permitted 10000 mg/kg, and residual monomer concentrations measured in food are comparable to past studies.

Updated residual styrene in polystyrene food packaging and contained foods

245th National Meeting (2013)

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