Men’s penises are half-an-inch smaller if they are exposed to high levels of chemicals in non-stick frying pans and fast food packaging while in the womb. By Sam Blanchard.

Scientists have found the chemicals, called PFCs, can interfere with male hormones and lead to sexual organs being ‘significantly’ shorter and thinner.

And this effect is not only seen in the womb, the researchers said. PFCs could have toxic effects in teenagers, too.

The chemicals, also found in waterproof clothing and greaseproof packaging for food, get into the bloodstream and reduce testosterone levels.

Beware of these

Chemicals called PFCs are common in everyday items and, notably, used to be used to make the Teflon coating for non-stick frying pans. …

The Italian researchers found PFCs will bind to testosterone receptors and reduce levels of the male sex hormone used in the body. …

They are found in fast food packaging, paper plates, stain-resistant carpets, windshield washing fluid, fire-fighting foam and waterproof clothing. PFCs are also in some glues, cosmetics, medicines, electronics, cleaning products, polishes and waxes, insecticides and paints. … PFCs used to be used in Teflon coating on non-stick frying pans but were phased out in 2013 and replaced with a less controversial chemical. …

Studies have linked the chemical to early menopause, low birth weight, lower fertility, thyroid problems, high cholesterol, bladder cancer and worse immune system function. …

‘This study documents that PFCs have a substantial impact on human male health as they directly interfere with hormonal pathways potentially leading to male infertility,’ the researchers wrote.

Male testosterone levels and sperm counts have been falling in the West (only) for several decades now. Is it all a feminist plot? Of course not, but probably best to avoid non-stick cookware.