Seattle Study Detects BPA, BPS, Melamine and Triclosan in Most Breast-Milk Samples, All Below WHO Daily Limits

A peer-reviewed study of 50 breast milk samples collected from mothers in Seattle found at least one of five tested compounds in 92% of the samples. BPA appeared in 74%, BPS in 78%, triclosan in 62%, and melamine in 92%. The same samples had previously been found to contain PFAS and flame retardants.

Ryan Babadi, lead author and senior scientist with Toxic Free Future, said the presence of multiple endocrine-disrupting chemicals in the same samples is concerning because infants undergo rapid development orchestrated by the endocrine system. The study is among the first to detect melamine together with other classes of these chemicals in breast milk.

Babadi noted that breastfeeding remains the healthiest option for infants when possible.

The plasticizers BPA and BPS are used in resins that prevent sticking to packaging and provide UV protection. Triclosan serves as an anti-microbial in some personal care products. Melamine functions as a resin in consumer goods.

Some compounds were detected below the World Health Organization’s tolerable daily intake level, though prior research has linked similar concentrations to potential health effects. The study’s sample was limited to 50 participants who were broadly more educated and higher-income.

Babadi said the findings point to a widespread, systemic problem because the chemicals are used across the economy and regulators are not restricting their use.

Individuals cannot avoid exposure through consumer choices alone, he added. The Trump EPA has moved to undo limits on many toxic chemicals and carcinogens in consumer goods or water and has attempted to weaken the regulatory process for chemicals. Babadi said stronger protections are needed rather than rollbacks, which would worsen exposures documented in the study.