Federal programs for mixtures
NIEHS runs initiatives focused on combined exposures and new statistical methods for mixture analysis.
These programs reflect a growing recognition that single-chemical models are incomplete.
Research is aimed at developing real-world models that reflect the actual chemical complexity of our environment and diet.
Advancing toxicological science
The goal is to move beyond the "one chemical at a time" approach to better understand the "exposome"—the totality of exposures over a lifetime.
New technologies and computer modeling are being used to predict how thousands of different chemicals might interact in the human body.
This shift in research focus is essential for modernizing food safety standards and protecting public health.
What this means for consumers
Mixture research is still evolving, but it helps explain why additive transparency matters.
PRūF surfaces additive combinations to support informed decision-making.
As federal research provides more clarity, our database will continue to reflect the latest scientific understanding of dietary mixtures.
Frequently Asked Questions
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is a US federal research institute that studies how the environment affects human health.
Sources
- Combined Exposures and Mixtures (CEM) + PRIME programs — National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS).
Summaries are educational and may be updated as regulations change.