| Phthalates are a class of compounds
most commonly used as softener for PVC packaging
and products. In the food industry, phthalate
compounds are most commonly used in plastic packaging
materials. The most commonly used phthalate is
DEHP. A study claims that normal exposure to phthalates
could harm the genital development of unborn baby
boys. Other animal studies on the toxicity of
phthalates have raised questions about its possible
effects on human health and sparked calls for
further studies on the chemicals.
A Danish company, Danisco, has developed a biodegradable plasticizer derived from castor oil and acetic acid. It is a colourless, odourless and completely biodegradable plasticizer. The new plasticiser can be used for PVC food and beverage packaging without the need to modify equipment. In addition, it is considered safe to be used in food contact materials. The plasticiser can also be used in the production of flexible polyvinyl PVC for consumer products such as toys, bottle cap liners, floorings, teething rings, tubes, cling films, conveyor belts, and medical devices. Danisco is awaiting approval from the US Food and Drug Administration and from Japan's regulators. |
