ABSTRACT
This chapter provides state-of-the-art overviews on foodborne diseases caused by Phthalates in relation to their etiology, biology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Phthalates are found in a wide variety of plastic products, with their primary function being to give flexibility to brittle plastics. Due to the ubiquitous use of phthalates in most products by humans, including food packaging, kitchen plasticware, and food storage, it is important to consider the effects that they have on human health. Phthalates are found in a wide variety of common products, including paints, medical devices, lotion, and perfume; thus, human exposure to phthalates is widespread. Phthalates generally have low volatility, especially with increasing chain length. Human exposure to phthalates can occur both directly and indirectly through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact throughout the life span. Phthalates can cross from maternal blood into the developing fetus via placental transfer and into neonates via breast milk.
