Children’s health is being affected by plastic chemicals in the school lunch rooms. If we don’t act now, our children and our planet will continue to get sick.

We, the concerned citizens of the United States of America, are urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to take immediate action to ban plastic in school cafeterias.

Plastic has become an essential component of our daily lives, but it is also a major source of pollution and a health hazard, especially for children. As per the 2018 AAP Food Additives and Child Health policy statement, the chemicals found in plastic, such as phthalates and bisphenols (among others), are associated with developmental and reproductive problems, learning disabilities, obesity, and even cancer.

School cafeterias should be a safe environment for children to eat and learn, but plastic trays, cups, utensils and general foodware may expose them to harmful chemicals. These chemicals leach into food, particularly when the plastic is heated or scratched, and can lead to long-term health problems. In fact, a study by the Harvard School of Public Health found that children who regularly eat meals prepared in plastic containers have significantly higher levels of phthalates in their urine.

While the FDA classifies many chemicals used in food packaging as Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS), this does not mean that they are actually safe. The GRAS designation was created in the 1950s, and many chemicals were grandfathered in without adequate safety testing. This outdated system does not take into account modern scientific evidence that proves the harmful effects of many chemicals, including those found in plastic.

As parents, educators, and concerned citizens, we demand that the FDA takes action to regulate these harmful chemicals and protect the health of our children. We urge the FDA to ban plastic in school cafeterias and provide safe alternatives, such as reusable containers and utensils made from glass, metal, or other safe materials. Our children's health should not be compromised for the convenience of single-use plastic.

Many countries around the world have already made updates to their food policy based on modern day science - banning the use of these known harmful chemicals in their food systems. However, the USA continues to allow the use of these banned substances in our food system. 

We ask the FDA to prioritize the health and well-being of our children and take action to ban plastic in school cafeterias. This is a small but important step towards a healthier and more sustainable future.