How do household chemicals change the gut microbiome?

New research sheds light on how chemicals found in the home change the flora of the gut microbiome, providing new directions for future study. Semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) are rife in the home – for example, phthalates are common in items such as shampoo, plastic clothing and detergents; per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are common in items such as non-stick cooking utensils, cleaning products and water-repellent fabrics. This is not a comprehensive list but exemplifies how daily exposure to these chemicals is almost unavoidable. SVOCs have been measured in biological samples across the globe, raising the question of whether they...