The FDA allows several harmful chemicals in food products, despite their proven health risks. Chemicals like benzene, trichloroethylene, and methylene chloride—known carcinogens—are used in products such as decaffeinated coffee and hops extracts​ ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE FUND ​ CONSUMER REPORTS . These substances remain legal in the U.S. due to outdated safety evaluations, even though they have been banned in Europe​ CONSUMER REPORTS . Efforts are underway to tighten regulations, with states like California leading the charge in restricting these dangerous additives​ CONSUMER REPORTS .