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The University of Erlangen recently conducted evaluation
of 85 patients to assess the presence of DOP degradation products
in urine samples and found that four of them had DOP content of
52 microgram/kg of body weight/day. This level crosses the maximum
value that has been specified by the European Scientific Committee
of 50 microgram/kg of body weight/day at which no damage to health
is expected.
The existing European report indicates that about
12 microgram/kg of body weight/day is absorbed through hair, skin
and blood. This value is significantly lower than the specified
50. Apparently, DOP extracted from the food path was not considered
while fixing the maximum limit of 50.
Researchers at the Univerisity suspect that food
products exposed to DOP could be the source for higher level of
DOP absorbed. This study indicates that the actual intake of DOP
could be much higher than what has been assumed so far. The European
Chemical Bureau may shortly review the risk assessment. In other
words, DOP, the single largest plasticizer used in the manufacture
of plasticized/flexible PVC; would come under cloud again until
further investigation proves that it is safe to be used.
DOP at higher levels may damage testicles, kidneys and liver.
In animal experiments, DOP is found to impair reproductive capacity.
Also some congenial abnormalities of the male sexual organs was
also found.
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