Assessment of Genotoxicity and Cytotoxicity of Leached Chemicals from HDPE Plastic Commonly Used by Ambulant Vendors

Abstract

Plasticizers and additives in plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles have been found to leach – especially when exposed to certain stresses, including temperature. Frequent exposure to these chemicals is associated with a higher risk of developing developmental and reproductive disorders and cancer. In this study, water at varying temperatures (28, 65, 75, and 85 °C) was contained in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic “labo,” a food packaging material common in the Philippines. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis showed that the leached chemicals were derivatives of plastic additives and compounds or degradation compounds of these chemicals. Notable leachates include dimethyl sulfoxide, isosorbide, and cyclohexene derivatives. Different compounds leached at different temperatures. The Allium cepa test revealed chromosomal aberrations such as anaphase with bridge, sticky chromosomes, and chromosomal breaks. These signify that the compounds may be genotoxic to Allium cepa root tip cells. The Allium cepa test, brine shrimp lethality assay, and MTT assay on MCF-7 cells were also conducted as preliminary cytotoxicity tests. Results showed an increase in mitotic activity for Allium cepa root tip cells and induced proliferation of MCF-7 cells. Moreover, the mortality rates of Artemia salina were low after 24 h of exposure. These findings provide additional information regarding the leaching from plastic labo – the identity of leached chemicals and the effects of exposure on various cell lines and organisms. These findings may be used as a basis for existing policies regarding the use of plastic as food packaging material.