We all know that there are many harmful ingredients that go into manufacturing plastic. Remember the endocrine disruptor (hormone disruptor) Bisphenol A (BPA) that was found in water bottles? Unfortunately, it’s only one of many toxic ingredients used in the production of plastic. Many other ingredients are overlooked, like this month’s non-ingredient, phthalates. They’re a group of chemicals that are plasticizers, meaning they are used in plastics to make them durable and flexible. And the worst part? They’re also used in many other products, ranging from personal-care to food.

Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they cause changes in the levels of hormones in your body. Altered levels of hormones can cause such effects as increased sperm count and early breast development in girls and boys. In addition, they may cause birth defects, cancerous tumours, and are suspected to cause developmental disorders, obesity and insulin resistance.
 

Going back to personal care products – phthalates can be found in products we use on a daily basis. And the scary thing is this non-ingredient isn’t listed on product labels. This toxic ingredient is used in synthetic fragrances and perfumes because it helps them last longer. It can also be found in detergents, children’s toys, pharmaceuticals, food products, and the list doesn’t end there. Personal care products that can contain phthalates include eye shadow, nail polish, liquid soap, hair spray, and moisturizer.

With the long list of health complications, consumers need to be wary of the products they’re using on a daily basis. Keep your family and yourself safe from the harmful effects of the toxic ingredients used in many of the products that we use every day.

For more information about non-ingredients:

• August’s Non-Ingredient of the Month
• July’s Non-Ingredient of the Month
• June’s Non-Ingredient of the Month