Corporate tactics like suppressing research and manufacturing doubt prevent effective health regulations and public awareness, especially concerning forever chemicals and ultra-processed foods.
This corporate behavior has contributed to diseases linked to tobacco, alcohol, and fossil fuels, implicated in a significant portion of global deaths.
Despite known dangers, companies like 3M and DuPont concealed damaging health effects of their products to protect profits, influencing both consumer safety and environmental health.
Key quote:
"We now know exposure to just four classes of product – tobacco, alcohol, ultra-processed foods and fossil fuels – are linked to one out of every three deaths worldwide."
— Nicholas Chartres and Lisa Bero, co-authors
Why this matters:
Understanding the extent of corporate influence on our health is important, especially as these practices contribute significantly to global mortality and disease. Stronger regulations and transparency to expose unethical practices can mitigate these risks. Read more: The birth of greenwashing.
Ever since the EU Commission published its hazardous chemicals strategy, the industry has lobbied to undermine and dilute its promises — and lobbyists can point to some clear wins.
CR tested popular fast foods and supermarket staples for some of the chemicals used to make plastic, which can be harmful to your health. Here's what we found—and how to stay safer.
