Phthalates in Toys Are Not Dangerous, Toy Association Claims

A study commissioned by the Toy Industry Association has concluded that phthalates, a type of chemical facing a ban in California, poses no risk to children when used in toys. The study analyzed research spanning several years and the researchers call the results comprehensive and conclusive.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, August 5, toy industry officials argue that this reports negates any rationalization behind a bill pending in California, which would outlaw toys using di-isononyl phthalates (DINP). The chemical is widely used in vinyl toys to provide softness, reducing the likelihood of choking hazards.

"Toy safety is TIA's number one priority and we have supported the development of stringent toy safety standards throughout the world," said Joan Lawrence, TIA's Vice President for Safety Standards and Regulatory Affairs. "But after exhaustive research and a thorough review of multiple international studies it is clear that toys containing DINP do not pose a risk to children's health."

More than 140 separate studies, scientific papers, and research documents were analyzed during the review. Some of the scientific evidence reviewed had been promoted by those seeking to ban the chemical. Other sources included studies conducted in other countries and by various U.S. environmental and consumer agencies. The report was conducted independently by Exponent, a consulting firm of scientists, physicians, engineers, and regulatory experts.

The conclusion that phthalates do not pose a threat to children was arrived at after a few notable findings. Among them, the lack of evidence of any negative effects on the human reproductive system, a frequently cited concern. Also, that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has repeatedly found that DINP is safe to use in children's toys. The overall conclusion was that phthalate containing toys did not provide enough exposure of the chemical to pose a real risk to health. The risk is said to be "minimal to nonexistent."

"We commissioned this study out of an abundance of caution and as a way of taking a step back to triple-check all the research performed to date," said Lawrence. "Was there any new information? Was anything missed that would signal a legitimate risk posed by DINP? Fortunately, the answers echo previous findings that toys containing DINP are safe for children."

The Toy Industry Association has renewed its opposition to the proposed California ban based on the study.

"There are certainly real safety and inspection issues that warrant thoughtful policy debate, but the safety of DINP is not one of them," Lawrence concluded.

The consulting firm, Exponent, is nationally praised for their in-depth studies. Yet that the "comprehensive" study was commissioned by the very industry fighting to prove the safety of the chemical is a cause for concern among some opponents. Concerned parents should weigh the information available before making a decision to purchase the products or not.

SOURCE:

Toy Industry Association, 'Study of Studies' Finds No Risk To Children From Phthalates In Toys, PR Newswire