Exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, di-n-butyl phthalate and bisphenol a through infant formulae

Background: Phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPA) are ubiquitous contaminants identified as endocrine disruptors. Phthalates are worldwide used as plasticizers, in particular to improve the mechanical properties of polymers such as polyvinyl chloride. Since they are not chemically bound to the polymer, they tend to leach out with time and use. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and din- butyl phthalate (DnBP) are two most common phthalates. BPA is an estrogenic compound used to manufacture polycarbonate containers for food and drink, including baby bottles. It can migrate from container into foods, especially at elevated temperatures. Diet is a predominant source of exposure for phthalates and BPA, especially for infants. Objective: to test the presence of DEHP, DnBP and BPA in infant formulae. Methods: DEHP, DnBP and BPA concentrations were measured in 22 liquid and 28 powder milks by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection and high performance liquid chromatography with fluorimetric detection respectively. Results: DEHP concentrations in our samples were between 0.005 and 5.088 ?g/g (median 0.906 ?g/g), DnBP concentrations were between 0.008 and 1.297 ?g/g (median 0.053 ?g/g), and BPA concentrations were between 0.003 and 0.375 ?g/g (median 0.015 ?g/g). Concentrations of the investigated contaminants in liquid and powder milks were not significantly different, even though samples were packed in different types of containers. Conclusions: These data point out potential hazards for infants fed with baby formulae. Contamination seems more related to the production of formulae than to a release from containers.