Are phthalates banned in the USA?

A: In 2017, the Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the use of eight ortho-phthalates in children’s toys and child-care articles. But in terms of their use in vinyl plastics and personal care products, there’s currently no specific legislation by other governmental agencies.

Why phthalates are banned?

Researchers have found that even low levels of exposure to certain phthalates can lead to hormonal disruption and reproductive harm, as well as lasting damage in children’s brain development.

What are two ways that phthalates affect human health?

In the past few years, researchers have linked phthalates to asthma, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, breast cancer, obesity and type II diabetes, low IQ, neurodevelopmental issues, behavioral issues, autism spectrum disorders, altered reproductive development and male fertility issues.

Which food containers contain phthalates?

Various different types of retail food packaging materials were found to contain one or several phthalates of interest: a glass jar metal closure with PVC gasket, a plastic container (unidentified plastic) with foiled lidding, a paper/foil/plastic laminate (beverage carton), a foil lined pouch, and several plastic bags …

How long does it take for phthalates to leave your system?

As phthalates are thought to have a relatively short half-life of less than 5 hours, this widespread detection is likely to indicate chronic exposure [15], rather than accrual within the body. Sources and pathways of exposure may vary widely.

How do you know if phthalates are in products?

All plastics are not the same. One easy way to recognize plastic toys, clothing, bottles, food and beverage storage containers, and/or food wrap that may contain phthalate compounds is to look for the number 3 inside the universal recycling symbol usually molded into the plastic on the bottom of the product.

Are phthalates in Ziploc bags?

“Our Saran™ and Ziploc® products do not contain harmful plasticizers, including those associated with endocrine disruption such as adipates (DEHA) or phthalates (DEHP).”