New Delhi | December 13, 2025

Scientists from across the world have raised a serious alarm over the growing use of synthetic chemicals in the global food system, warning that these substances are contributing to rising cases of cancer, infertility and developmental disorders, while also causing large-scale environmental damage. The warning comes from a new global scientific report released this week, which examines the long-term health and economic impact of chemicals commonly used in food production, processing and packaging.

The report highlights chemicals such as phthalates, bisphenols, pesticides and PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in nature. These substances are widely found in plastic packaging, food containers, farming inputs and industrial processing. According to scientists, constant exposure to these chemicals is now posing a serious threat to human health across all age groups.

Researchers estimate that the health burden linked to these chemicals costs the global economy up to $2.2 trillion every year. This includes expenses related to healthcare, lost productivity and long-term treatment of diseases. The report notes that this amount is nearly equal to the combined annual profits of the world’s 100 largest publicly listed companies, underlining the scale of the problem.

Beyond health costs, the environmental damage caused by these chemicals remains largely unaccounted for. Even a limited analysis of ecosystem harm, including reduced crop yields, soil damage and the cost of ensuring safe drinking water, points to an additional annual burden of around $640 billion. Scientists say the real environmental cost could be far higher, as many impacts are difficult to measure.

One of the most worrying findings of the report relates to long-term population trends. Scientists warn that continued exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenols could have serious demographic effects. If current exposure levels remain unchanged, the world could see between 200 million and 700 million fewer births between 2025 and 2100. Researchers say this could place further strain on societies already facing ageing populations and declining birth rates.

The study was carried out by dozens of scientists from leading institutions, including the Institute of Preventive Health, the Center for Environmental Health, ChemSec, and several universities in the United States and the United Kingdom, such as the University of Sussex and Duke University. The research was coordinated by a core team from the global advisory firm Systemiq.

Professor Philip Landrigan, a paediatrician and global public health expert at Boston College, described the findings as a major wake-up call. He said chemical pollution now poses a threat on the same scale as climate change and biodiversity loss. According to him, the health effects of chemical exposure are already visible, particularly among children, who are more vulnerable to developmental and neurological harm.

The report also draws attention to the rapid growth of chemical production over the past few decades. Since the 1950s, global chemical production has increased more than 200 times, with over 350,000 synthetic chemicals currently in use worldwide. Experts point out that unlike medicines, most industrial chemicals are introduced into the market with minimal safety testing, allowing harmful substances to enter the food chain before risks are fully understood.

Scientists behind the report are calling for urgent action by governments, regulators and industries. They urge stricter safety testing, better regulation of chemical use in food systems, and faster moves toward safer alternatives. Without strong intervention, they warn, the health, environmental and economic damage caused by chemical pollution will continue to grow, placing future generations at serious risk.

The findings have added fresh urgency to global debates on food safety, public health and environmental protection, with researchers stressing that reducing chemical exposure is no longer optional, but essential for human survival and well-being.

 Scientists Warn Synthetic Chemicals in Food System Are Fueling Cancer, Infertility and Global Health Crisis

Scientists around the world have issued a strong warning about the growing use of synthetic chemicals in the global food system, saying these substances are now linked to serious health and environmental risks. A new global report reveals that chemicals commonly used in food production, processing, and packaging are contributing to rising cases of cancer, infertility, and neurodevelopmental disorders.

The report focuses on chemicals such as phthalates, bisphenols, pesticides, and PFAS, often called “forever chemicals” because they do not easily break down. These substances are widely found in plastic food containers, packaging materials, farming inputs, and industrial processes. Continuous exposure, scientists say, is quietly entering the food chain and affecting people of all ages.

Researchers estimate that the health burden linked to these chemicals costs the global economy up to $2.2 trillion every year. This includes healthcare costs, loss of productivity, and long-term treatment of chronic diseases. In addition, environmental damage caused by these chemicals — such as harm to crops, soil, and water systems — adds at least another $640 billion annually, though experts believe the real cost may be much higher.

One of the most alarming findings relates to future population trends. Scientists warn that ongoing exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals could lead to 200 million to 700 million fewer births worldwide between 2025 and 2100. Such a decline could have serious social and economic consequences, especially for countries already facing falling birth rates.

The research was conducted by scientists from leading institutions in the US and UK and was coordinated by Systemiq. Public health expert Professor Philip Landrigan called the findings a “wake-up call,” warning that chemical pollution is now as dangerous as climate change.

Since the 1950s, chemical production has increased more than 200 times, with over 350,000 synthetic chemicals in use today — many with little safety testing. Scientists are urging governments to act now to protect human health and the environment.