Endocrine disruptors
Endocrine disruptors, EDCs, endocrine disrupting chemicals, hormonal disruptors
What it is
Substances that interfere with the hormonal system. They can mimic, block or alter natural hormones, affecting how the body functions.
Why BOTIA flags it
Interacting with hormones is not automatically harmful. Endocrine disruption must be shown for each substance; real-world risk also depends on exposure. The evidence does not support calling all women more vulnerable or blaming the whole class for PCOS, endometriosis, infertility or hormone-sensitive cancers.
BOTIA CAN
- Provide contextual information on endocrine disruption risk from food contact materials and environmental exposure.
- Connect this risk to specific ingredients flagged on the label when applicable.
BOTIA CANNOT
- Measure the level of endocrine disruptors in a specific product from the label alone.
- Assess your personal cumulative exposure or individual hormonal sensitivity.