Phthalates- What is it and why you want to avoid it?

What are phthalates anyway?

Phthalates are a class of chemical that makes plastic soft and pliable. So things like disposable water bottles are very likely to have been made with phthalates. They are very common place in disposable plastic items. However, being present in your container doesn’t guaranteed that you will be exposed to the chemical. There are real concerns though that the chemical can be leached into your food especially at different temperatures. As a side note – I never recommend re-using plastic containers that are not meant for that purpose.

How Do You Pronounce Phthalates?

Phthalates are pronounced as “THAL-ates”. The “ph” at the beginning is silent which makes the pronunciation simpler than it might first appear. Here’s a phonetic breakdown:

• “THAL”: This sounds like the beginning of the word “thousand”.
• “ates”: This sounds like the ending of the word “creates”.

So, when you put it together, it sounds like “THAL-ates.”

Why should you try to stay away from phthalates?

This chemical has been linked to many illnesses, too many to list all of them. But the list includes things like asthma, attention deficit disorder, diabetes, behavioral issues and a whole slew of other things. There is a bill passed in 2008 banning phthalates from children’s products because there is a legitimate concern about what the chemical can do to growing bodies. Do I need to go any further to convince you that you probably should try to stay away from it? 

If you thought that was bad news, here is even worse news. It’s virtually impossible to avoid if you are a part of this modern world. Let’s say you decide to never use another plastic container again and to avoid everything plastic. What you might not have realized is that your products could have been exposed to phthalate even before it gets to you. Scary isn’t it? While difficult to avoid it altogether you can certainly take some steps to limit your exposure.

Where are Phthalates Found?

Phthalates are ubiquitous in modern life, thanks to their versatility and effectiveness in making plastics more flexible and durable. Here are some of the most common places you might encounter phthalates:

1. Personal Care Products

Phthalates are often used in personal care products to help fragrances last longer and to make products easier to apply. You’ll find them in:

• Shampoos and Conditioners: They help maintain the consistency of these products.
• Lotions and Creams: Phthalates make these products smoother and easier to spread on the skin.
• Perfumes and Deodorants: They stabilize fragrances and make them last longer.
• Nail Polish: Phthalates prevent nail polish from becoming brittle and chipping easily.

2. Plastics

One of the most common uses of phthalates is in the manufacturing of plastics. They are used to make plastics more flexible and durable. You’ll find phthalates in:

• Vinyl Flooring: Provides durability and flexibility to flooring materials.
• Shower Curtains: Keeps them soft and pliable.
• Plastic Wrap: Used to keep food fresh, though it can sometimes leach into the food.
• Toys: Especially soft, squeezable plastic toys, though regulations have limited this in many countries.

3. Household Items

Phthalates are present in various household products, often to improve flexibility, durability, and longevity. These items include:

• Detergents: Used to dissolve and stabilize ingredients.
• Lubricants: Provide the necessary consistency and performance.
• Adhesives: Help in maintaining flexibility and durability.
• Vinyl Products: Such as upholstery, cables, and garden hoses.

4. Medical Devices

Phthalates are used in some medical devices due to their ability to make plastics more flexible and easier to use. They are found in:

• IV Bags and Tubing: Provide flexibility and durability.
• Blood Bags: Ensures the bag remains soft and flexible during use and storage.
• Catheters: Helps in maintaining flexibility for ease of insertion and comfort.

5. Food and Beverages

Phthalates can leach into food from various sources, particularly when food is packaged or processed using plastic materials. Common sources include:

• Plastic Packaging: Phthalates can migrate into food from plastic wrap and containers.
• Processing Equipment: Used in food production and processing can introduce phthalates into food.
• Storage Containers: Plastic containers used for storing food may contain phthalates.

6. Building Materials

Phthalates are used in various building materials to enhance flexibility and durability. You’ll find them in:

• Vinyl Flooring: Widely used for its durability and ease of maintenance.
• Wall Coverings: Provides flexibility and resistance to damage.
• Sealants and Adhesives: Used in construction to ensure long-lasting bonds.

7. Automotive Products

In the automotive industry, phthalates are used to make various parts more flexible and durable. These include:

• Dashboard Components: Provides flexibility and durability to plastic parts.
• Upholstery: Used in synthetic leather and other flexible materials.
• Undercoating: Applied to the underside of vehicles to protect against rust and damage.

Certainly, let’s delve into the regulatory status of phthalates in the next section.

In Which Countries Are Phthalates Banned?

The regulatory landscape for phthalates varies significantly around the world. Some countries have taken strict measures to limit or ban the use of certain phthalates, particularly in products intended for children and in items that come into close contact with the human body. Here’s an overview of how different regions handle phthalate regulations:

United States

In the United States, several phthalates are restricted, particularly in children’s products:

• Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA): This law, passed in 2008, limits the use of certain phthalates in children’s toys and childcare articles. Specifically, DEHP, DBP, and BBP are banned at concentrations higher than 0.1%.
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA regulates phthalates in food contact materials and pharmaceuticals, ensuring they are used within safe limits.
• State Regulations: Some states, like California, have additional regulations under Proposition 65, which requires warnings on products containing chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

European Union

The European Union has implemented some of the most stringent regulations on phthalates:

• REACH Regulation: Under the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation, several phthalates are classified as substances of very high concern (SVHC). DEHP, DBP, BBP, and DIBP are among those restricted in consumer products.
• RoHS Directive: The Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive limits the use of certain phthalates in electrical and electronic equipment.
• Toy Safety Directive: The EU Toy Safety Directive bans the use of specific phthalates in toys and childcare articles at concentrations above 0.1%.

Other Regions

• Canada: Health Canada has banned the use of several phthalates in children’s toys and childcare articles that can be mouthed by children.
• Australia: Australia restricts the use of certain phthalates in toys and childcare articles under the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
• Japan: Japan has regulations that limit the use of phthalates in toys and other consumer products.

Global Trends

Globally, there is a trend towards more stringent regulation of phthalates, particularly in products that come into close contact with the body or are used by children. As scientific research continues to shed light on the potential health risks associated with phthalates, it is likely that more countries will adopt stricter measures to control their use.

Sure, let’s explore how phthalates can be reduced in our daily lives in the next section.

How to Reduce Phthalate Exposure

Given the potential health risks associated with phthalates, many people are looking for ways to reduce their exposure to these chemicals. Here are some practical steps you can take to minimize phthalates in your everyday life:

1. Choose Phthalate-Free Personal Care Products

Phthalates are commonly found in a wide range of personal care products, from shampoos and lotions to perfumes and deodorants. To reduce your exposure:

• Read Labels: Look for products labeled “phthalate-free.” Be on the lookout for ingredients like “DEP,” “DBP,” and “DEHP” which are common phthalates.
• Fragrance-Free Options: Choose fragrance-free products whenever possible, as “fragrance” can be a catch-all term that includes phthalates.

2. Opt for Safer Food Storage

Phthalates can leach from plastic containers into food, especially when heated. To minimize this:

• Use Glass or Stainless Steel: Store food in glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic ones.
• Avoid Heating Plastic: Do not microwave food in plastic containers or use plastic wrap in the microwave.

3. Be Cautious with Plastics

Phthalates are often used to make plastics more flexible. To reduce exposure from plastics:

• Check Recycling Codes: Avoid plastics with recycling codes 3 (PVC) and 7 (other), as these can contain phthalates.
• Choose Alternatives: Use alternatives like wooden toys for children instead of plastic ones.
• If you must use plastic, avoid heating food in them. Glass is excellent because some are microwave and even oven safe

4. Clean Your Home Regularly

Phthalates can accumulate in household dust. Regular cleaning can help reduce this source of exposure:

• Dust and Vacuum: Dust and vacuum your home regularly to reduce phthalate-laden dust.
• Use a HEPA Filter: Consider using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap small particles.

5. Be Mindful of Household Items

Phthalates are found in various household items, including vinyl flooring, shower curtains, and air fresheners. To minimize exposure:

• Choose Phthalate-Free Options: Look for phthalate-free flooring and shower curtains.
• Avoid Air Fresheners: Many air fresheners contain phthalates, so it’s best to avoid them and use natural alternatives like essential oils.

6. Check Medications and Supplements

Some medications and supplements may contain phthalates in their coatings. To reduce exposure:

• Consult Your Doctor: Ask your healthcare provider if your medications contain phthalates and if there are alternative options available.
• Look for Phthalate-Free Brands: Some supplement brands offer phthalate-free options, so check labels and do your research.

Recognizing phthalates on product labels can be tricky because they are often listed under different names. However, here are some tips to help you identify them:

How to Recognize Phthalate Names on Labels

Phthalates might not always be explicitly labeled as such. Here are some common names and abbreviations you might find on product labels:

• DEP: Diethyl phthalate
• DBP: Dibutyl phthalate
• BBP: Benzyl butyl phthalate
• DEHP: Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
• DMP: Dimethyl phthalate
• DIDP: Diisodecyl phthalate
• DINP: Diisononyl phthalate
• DNOP: Di-n-octyl phthalate

Where to Look for Phthalates

1. Personal Care Products

Check the ingredients list on products such as shampoos, lotions, perfumes, and cosmetics. Phthalates are often used as solvents and to help fragrances last longer.

2. Plastics and Vinyl Products

Products made of flexible plastics, like toys, shower curtains, and vinyl flooring, may contain phthalates. These are not always labeled, but looking for products labeled “phthalate-free” can help.

3. Food Packaging

Phthalates can be found in food packaging materials. While they are not always listed, avoiding plastic packaging when possible can reduce exposure.

Certification Labels

Some products may carry certification labels indicating they are free from certain harmful chemicals, including phthalates:

• “Phthalate-Free”: Directly indicates the product does not contain phthalates.
• Certifications: Look for certification marks from organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG), which screen products for harmful chemicals.

Apps and Online Resources

Using apps and online resources can help you identify products that contain phthalates. Apps like Think Dirty or EWG’s Skin Deep Database allow you to scan barcodes or search for products to check for harmful ingredients.

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