The recently released CDC report is consistent with earlier estimates of human exposure to phthalates and indicates that those levels are at or within the safety limits set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Independent scientists, international government bodies and phthalate producers have conducted extensive studies about the safety, health and environmental effects of phthalates, none of which present credible evidence that people are harmed by phthalates.
Consumers can remain confident about using products that contain phthalates.
The concept of measuring exposure to substances is not a new one. The technique employed by the CDC in its measurement of phthalate metabolites is new. It will enable the monitoring of phthalate exposures to verify that they stay within government-determined safe levels. The Panel will continue its practice of working cooperatively with government agencies so that these valuable compounds can continue to be used safely. Phthalate esters are a key ingredient found in hundreds of products that families rely on in their daily lives and that their doctors rely on to provide quality medical care.