According to an article on What Hi-Fi?, a surprisingly large number of headphones – including models from well-known A-brands – contain toxic substances that may have unpleasant side effects.
It goes without saying that a product worn for long periods and often in direct contact with the skin should not contain harmful chemicals. However, that appears to be less self-evident for some headphone manufacturers, at least according to What Hi-Fi?, which in turn cites a report from the British newspaper The Guardian. Based on research conducted by the European initiative ToxFree LIFE for All, headphones from brands including Samsung, Bose, Sennheiser and Panasonic were found to contain Bisphenol A (BPA) and Bisphenol S (BPS). These substances were reportedly detected in 98 percent and 75 percent of the tested samples, respectively.
The concern is that BPA and BPS can mimic the hormone estrogen, potentially leading to a range of adverse effects. These may include, for example, the early onset of puberty in girls or feminising effects in boys and men.
Much ado about nothing?
In addition, phthalates were reportedly found – chemicals known for their potential impact on fertility – as well as chlorinated paraffins, which have been linked to liver and kidney damage. At the same time, ToxFree LIFE for All states that there is no immediate health risk. It is also worth noting that the substances mentioned have long been used in a variety of everyday products, including food can linings, clothing, thermal paper (such as receipt paper) and dental fillings.
Moreover, the levels detected in the tested headphones were reportedly below established safety thresholds. So, is this a storm in a teacup – or something consumers should nevertheless keep in mind?