Endocrine active substances

Endocrine active substances (EAS) can interact or interfere with normal hormonal action. When this leads to adverse effects, they are called endocrine disruptors.

The endocrine system is important for human and animal health because it regulates and controls the release of hormones.

Humans and animals may be exposed to a wide range of endocrine active substances through the diet as well as other sources. EAS can be naturally-occurring (such as phytoestrogens in soya) or man-made. Examples of EAS include several pesticides, environmental pollutants like dioxins and PCBs, and the food contact material, bisphenol A. Some EAS are intentionally used in medicines (birth control pills, thyroid hormone substitutes) because of their endocrine active properties.