Animal studies have reported developmental effects, but only at maternally toxic doses, and no reproductive effects from oral exposure to mixed cresols. Only anecdotal information is available on the carcinogenic effects of mixed cresols in humans. Exceedance of the RfD does not imply that an adverse health effect would necessarily occur. As the amount and frequency of exposures exceeding the RfD increase, the probability of adverse health effects also increases. Some foods, such as tomatoes, ketchup, asparagus, cheeses, butter, bacon, and smoked foods, as well as beverages, such as red wine, raw and roasted coffee and black tea, contain mixed cresols.
Mixed cresols are also strong dermal irritants.
Ingestion of mixed cresols by humans has resulted in death, with effects on the respiratory system, gastrointestinal system, blood, liver, kidney, and central nervous system. Animal studies have reported respiratory tract and eye irritation, and effects on the liver, kidney, and central nervous system from acute inhalation exposure to mixed cresols. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. National Toxicology Information Program, National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD. 1993. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.