Distribution and Health Risk Assessment of Triclosan and Other Typical Endocrine Disruptors in Honey

Endocrine disruptors (EDCs) in food pose a significant threat to health. This study developed a method for detecting seven EDCs (triclosan (TCS), triclocarban (TCC), methyltriclosan (MTCS), methylparaben (MeP), propylparaben (PrP), bisphenol F (BPF), and 4-hydroxybenzophenone-3-ethylcarboxylate (4HBP)) in honey. The method combines ultrasonic-assisted dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction with high-performance liquid chromatography. It achieved a recovery rate of 89.70-102.2%, with an RSD value of 1.1-3.9%. Additionally, this study tested 47 honey samples from seven countries, revealing detection rates of TCS at 29.79%, TCC at 19.15%, BPF at 97.87%, 4HBP at 36.17%, MeP at 82.98%, and PrP at 80.85%. Among the 12 nectar sources, citrus flower nectar had the highest TCS detection rate, mother grass nectar had the highest TCC detection rate, and multi-flower nectar had the highest 4HBP detection rate. Moreover, imported honey samples showed higher levels of TCS, BPF, and MeP contamination compared to domestic samples. Honey stored in PET bottles contained the highest levels of EDCs. Finally, health risk assessments indicated that, while the risk for adults is lower, monitoring EDC contamination in food should be strengthened to ensure consumer safety.