Health assessment of phthalates/plasticisers

Phthalates are chemical compounds that are primarily used as plasticizers in plastics. However, phthalates are not permanently bound in the respective plastics, and can be released from them. Depending on the area of application, there are different limit values for the various phthalates in order to protect consumer health. 
Because phthalates were produced and used in large quantities in the past, they can be detected almost everywhere in the environment and as contaminants in many foods. Humans mainly ingest phthalates through food, and young children also ingest them through house dust and objects that they put in their mouths.

The BfRshort forGerman Federal Institute for Risk Assessment assesses the health risks of phthalates/plasticisers.