Chemist Joe Schwarcz discovered an arithmetic error in a recent study that caused unnecessary panic about toxic chemicals in black plastic kitchenware. The study erroneously claimed that kitchen items could be poisoning people with flame retardant toxins, with headlines urging people to throw out their spatulas. However, the error in calculation showed that the actual exposure levels were not as high as suggested. While the black plastic issue is still a concern, it highlights the importance of accurate numbers in risk analysis. Schwarcz emphasizes proper measurement and unit expressions to avoid unnecessary fear-mongering. Science must be accurate to inform health policy effectively.
https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/black-plastic