Background

Phthalate esters are plasticizers used in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to soften the hard PVC by ‘lubricating’ the areas between polymer strands so that it can be used in consumer products like inflatable pools and food packaging. Unfortunately, phthalate esters frequently leach from the plastic into human bodies. Consumers blame phthalate-based PVC plasticizers for many health issues, including birth defects and cancer. In response, the governments of the EU and US have either banned or strictly regulated certain phthalates used in consumer products.