The University of Exeter research looked at Bisphenol A (BPA), which makes plastics flexible but strong.

Some studies have suggested that the chemical could be linked to breast cancer and heart disease and there have been calls for it to be banned. However, others believe that stance is misleading.

BPA, which has been used since the 1960s, is often found in the white lining inside tinned foods, drinks cans and bottle tops. Even till receipts, DVDs and processed foods are known to contain it.

Researchers studied 94 teenagers and found it was almost impossible for them to avoid BPA products.

Professor Lorna Harries, who led the project, is calling for clearer labeling on the packaging so people can make informed choices when doing their food shopping.