Phthalates

Phthalates are a family of chemical compounds that are esters of phthalic acid. They are primarily used as plasticizers—to soften and increase the flexibility of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other plastics. Because most phthalates are not covalently bound to the polymer matrix, they can migrate out of products over time, leading to human and environmental exposure.

The phthalate family includes many compounds, among them di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP, also called DOP), diisononyl phthalate (DINP), diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP) and others. In consumer products, phthalates have been used in PVC flooring and cables, vinyl toys, seals and coatings, medical devices, cosmetics and personal care products.

Health and environmental concerns: Some phthalates are associated with reproductive toxicity and endocrine disruption in animals, and epidemiological studies have explored associations with developmental effects in children, though findings are not always consistent. Because many phthalates can leach and migrate, exposure can occur via ingestion of contaminated food or dust, inhalation of indoor air, or dermal contact with consumer products. In humans and animals, most phthalates are rapidly metabolized to monoester metabolites and excreted in urine. In response, several regulators have restricted use in toys and childcare articles and in cosmetics in some jurisdictions.

Regulation and alternatives: The EU has restricted certain phthalates under REACH and specific directives for toys; the United States has imposed restrictions on children's products; some states require labeling or bans in certain articles. Safer substitutes include adipates, citrates and other plasticizers, though replacements may carry their own hazards. Phthalates remain widely used but are subject to ongoing regulatory review and industry substitution efforts.