A recent study by the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (OSAV) has raised alarming concerns about the presence of tire additives in the food chain. Published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials, the research indicates that these additives, which are commonly used in tire manufacturing, have been detected in all categories of the most frequently consumed fruits and vegetables in Switzerland.
The study found that 31% of the samples tested contained traces of these substances, including 6PPD and its derivative 6PPD-quinone. This revelation follows earlier Austrian studies from August 2023 that highlighted the presence of similar additives in leafy vegetables, prompting the OSAV to initiate further investigations in Switzerland.
Florian Breider, director of the Central Environmental Laboratory (GR-CEL) at EPFL, explained the implications of this study. He stated, "Thanks to the consumption statistics from OSAV, the study has established a theoretical daily exposure rate to these molecules through ingestion." He emphasized the need for further research to understand the long-term effects of these additives on human health, which remain largely unknown.
While some studies have demonstrated the toxicity of tire additives on mammals, particularly in rodents, the critical exposure threshold for humans has yet to be established. Research has shown that these additives can lead to decreased male fertility and various neurotoxic effects. Breider pointed out, "We do not know how these molecules are metabolized by the human body, so we must investigate this issue further, especially since we are all exposed, particularly certain populations like road workers."
Interestingly, the exposure to these additives does not only stem from urban environments. A 2023 analysis revealed that rural areas are also affected, as the frequency of road traffic does not significantly mitigate exposure risks. The study highlights that approximately 6 million tons of tire additives are released into the environment annually, with particles being transferred to the food chain through atmospheric deposition, soil contamination, and runoff water.
In addition, an ongoing study by EPFL has detected these components in Alpine lakes, indicating a broader environmental impact. The findings suggest that the exposure to tire additives could be comparable to other micropollutants that have raised health concerns in the past.
To address this issue, researchers are currently exploring methods to reduce the transfer of these harmful substances from roads to the environment. Studies have shown that aggressive driving behaviors, such as rapid acceleration and harsh braking, exacerbate tire wear, leading to increased particulate release into the atmosphere, soil, and surface waters.
As the research progresses, the EPFL and OSAV are calling for more comprehensive studies to determine the full extent of human exposure and the potential health risks associated with these tire additives. The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated, as it poses a significant public health concern that demands immediate attention.
In conclusion, the findings from the EPFL and OSAV study serve as a wake-up call for both consumers and regulators. With tire additives infiltrating the food supply, it is imperative that further investigations be conducted to safeguard public health and mitigate the risks associated with these contaminants.
