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The facts about the phthalates scare

P Scowen

    Professional Care of Mother and Child
    |January 1, 1996
    PubMed

    Insights

    Phthalate levels in infant formula are very low, posing no health risk to babies according to UK and European authorities. Further research on phthalates in food and the environment is recommended.

    Area of Science:

    • Environmental Chemistry
    • Food Safety
    • Toxicology

    Background:

    • Phthalates are industrial chemicals found in the environment.
    • They are fat-soluble and can be present in various foods, including milk, meat, fish, eggs, and infant formulas.
    • Phthalates may also be detected in breast milk.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To assess the levels of phthalates in infant formula brands.
    • To determine the potential health risks associated with phthalate exposure in infants.

    Main Methods:

    • A survey conducted by the MAFF (Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food) tested 15 brands of infant formula.
    • Analysis focused on the presence and levels of individual phthalates.

    Main Results:

    • Very low levels of phthalates were detected in all 15 infant formula brands tested.
    • Low phthalate levels were also found generally in the food chain.
    • The Department of Health and the European Commission have confirmed no health risk to infants from these levels.

    Conclusions:

    • Current levels of phthalates in infant formula do not present a health risk to infants.
    • The European Commission has called for additional research into phthalates in both food and the environment.

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