Transfer of eight phthalates through the milk chain--a case study

Determination of fatty acid, cholesterol, alpha-tocopherol, and aroma components of traditionally and commercially produced Trabzon butters

This study investigated 29 butter samples from Trabzon, Turkey. Cholesterol contents ranged from 134.13 to 325 mg/100 g, α-tocopherol contents ranged from 1.62 to 3.37 mg/100 g, and β-carotene contents ranged from 4.46 to 15.60 μg/g. Fatty acid composition analysis showed variations, with palmitic acid ranging from 26.11 % to 44.25 %, oleic acid from 19.55 % to 29.80 %, and linoleic acid from 1.63 % to 3.04 %. A total of 44 aroma components were identified. Traditional butter samples exhibited differences in aroma components and fatty acid composition compared to commercial butter. Notably, traditional butter had higher concentrations of octanoic and n-decanoic acids than commercial butter. Moreover, some aroma components such as N-butanoic acid 2-ethylhexyl ester, decanoic acid, and pentadecane were found exclusively in traditional butters. Traditional butter showed higher α-tocopherol and β-carotene contents. These findings underscore the distinct chemical profiles of traditional and commercial butter samples, influenced by production methods and possibly geographical origin.

Evaluating Phthalates and Bisphenol in Foods: Risks for Precocious Puberty and Early-Onset Obesity

Recent scientific results indicate that diet is the primary source of exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) due to their use in food processing, pesticides, fertilizers, and migration from packaging to food, particularly in plastic or canned foods. Although EDCs are not listed on nutrition labels, their migration from packaging to food could inadvertently lead to food contamination, affecting individuals by inhalation, ingestion, and direct contact. The aim of our narrative review is to investigate the role of phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) in foods, assessing their risks for precocious puberty (PP) and early-onset obesity, which are two clinical entities that are often associated and that share common pathogenetic mechanisms. The diverse outcomes observed across different studies highlight the complexity of phthalates and BPA effects on the human body, both in terms of early puberty, particularly in girls, and obesity with its metabolic disruptions. Moreover, obesity, which is independently linked to early puberty, might confound the relationship between exposure to these EDCs and pubertal timing. Given the potential public health implications, it is crucial to adopt a precautionary approach, minimizing exposure to these EDCs, especially in vulnerable populations such as children.

Identification and characterisation of moderately thermostable diisobutyl phthalate degrading esterase from a Great Artesian Basin Bacillus velezensis NP05

Phthalate esters are known to be endocrine disrupting chemicals and are documented to pollute environments. Enzymatic degradation of PAEs is a potential bioremedial strategy to manage contamination. Thermostable bioremedial enzymes have advantages in enzyme manufacturing and storage. In this study, we identified, overexpressed, and characterised a moderately thermostable para-nitrobenzyl esterase from whole genome sequencing of a Bacillus velezensis NP05 from the Great Artesian Basin, capable of sequential 2-step hydrolysis of diisobutyl phthalate. The pnbA enzyme has a molecular weight of 55.14 kDa and pI of 5.31. It preferentially degrades para-nitrophenyl butanoate and has an optimal pH of 7-8. The pnbA esterase has an optimal temperature of 55 °C with a half-life of 4 h. Using HPLC we found that pnbA (0.122 U) can hydrolyse 0.83 mM of DIBP within 25 min. Lastly, pnbA is potentially a more economically viable candidate for enzymatic bioremediation of diisobutyl phthalate as a free enzyme.

Connecting the Dots: Livestock Animals as Missing Links in the Chain of Microplastic Contamination and Human Health

Plastic pollution is a global diffuse threat, especially considering its fragmentation into microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs). Since the contamination of the aquatic environment is already well studied, most studies have now focused on the soil. Moreover, the number of studies on the exposure routes and toxic effects of MNPs in humans is continuously increasing. Although MNPs can cause inflammation, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and immune toxicity in livestock animals, which can accumulate ingested/inhaled plastic particles and transfer them to humans through the food chain, research on this topic is still lacking. In considering farm animals as the missing link between soil/plant contamination and human health effects, this paper aims to describe their importance as carriers and vectors of MNP contamination. As research on this topic is in its early stages, there is no standard method to quantify the amount and the characteristics of MNPs in different matrices. Therefore, the creation of a common database where researchers can report data on MNP characteristics and quantification methods could be helpful for both method standardization and the future training of an AI tool for predicting the most abundant/dangerous polymer(s), thus supporting policy decisions to reduce plastic pollution and perfectly fitting with One Health principles.

Analysis of ortho-phthalates and other plasticizers in select organic and conventional foods in the United States

BACKGROUND

ortho-phthalates and other plasticizers impart flexibility to plastics in food production, processing, and packaging; food consumption is a dominant plasticizer exposure pathway. Lower molecular weight ortho-phthalates are being replaced in plastic products due to toxicity concerns, but toxic hazards of and exposures to replacement ortho-phthalates and other plasticizers are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

We measured 12 ortho-phthalates and 9 other plasticizers in conventional and organic U.S. food products to assess magnitude and profiles of contamination.

METHODS

We measured plasticizers in 34 vegetable oils, 10 milks, 18 infant formulas, and 9 cheese powders from macaroni kits using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We analyzed plastic packaging composition using FTIR spectroscopy.

RESULTS

We detected eight ortho-phthalates and three alternatives ((1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH), diethylhexyl terephthalate (DEHT), and diisobutyl adipate (DIBA). Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) was measured in all 71 products. DEHT had the highest concentration of any plasticizer (>10,000 ng/g in three oils). Oils had the highest total plasticizer (median = 770 ng/g, max = 14,900 ng/g) and milk the lowest (median = 88 ng/g, max = 120 ng/g). Organic milk and refined oils had higher median plasticizer levels than conventional. Refined oils had significantly lower concentrations than unrefined oils. Maximum contributors for every category were non-ortho-phthalates: DEHT (powdered infant formula and oils) and DIBA (cheese powder, milk and liquid formula). Plasticizers were not detected in packaging except epoxidized soybean oil in liquid formula lids.

IMPACT STATEMENT

Human exposure to plasticizers is a significant public health concern. Nevertheless, sources of such exposures are poorly characterized. This study adds valuable information for estimating legacy and alternative plasticizer exposures from foods. The method developed for measuring DINCH, DINP and DIDP broadens the range of plasticizers other researchers may analyze in future work. The profiles of plasticizer contamination varied depending on the food type. We also document that food processing may be a source of plasticizer contamination in foods.

Origin, dietary exposure, and toxicity of endocrine-disrupting food chemical contaminants: A comprehensive review

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a growing public health concern worldwide. Consumption of foodstuffs is currently thought to be one of the principal exposure routes to EDCs. However, alternative ways of human exposure are through inhalation of chemicals and dermal contact. These compounds in food products such as canned food, bottled water, dairy products, fish, meat, egg, and vegetables are a ubiquitous concern to the general population. Therefore, understanding EDCs' properties, such as origin, exposure, toxicological impact, and legal aspects are vital to control their release to the environment and food. The present paper provides an overview of the EDCs and their possible disrupting impact on the endocrine system and other organs.

Evaluation of Chemical Contaminants in Conventional and Unconventional Ragusana Provola Cheese

Organic contaminants belonging to various classes (plasticizers, bisphenols, pesticides, PCBs, and PAHs,) were analyzed in samples of provola cheese produced from Friesian dairy cows fed with a conventional diet (group CTR), and an unconventional diet (group BIO) enriched with olive cake (OC). The results show that for most determined contaminants, the differences between the two diets were very slight, indicating that the contamination does not depend on the olive cake integrated in the unconventional diet. The results also indicate that the minimal contamination could result from environmental contamination or the production process. It can be concluded that unconventional provola is as safe for the consumer as conventional provola.

Evaluation of portable vibrational spectroscopy for identifying plasticizers in dairy tubing

Plasticisers are commonly used to increase the flexibility of a wide variety of food contact materials including the plastic tubing, liners, and gaskets used in the dairy industry. In recent years, some classes of plasticisers have come under scrutiny due to the potential for transfer of these compounds into the milk itself, which can then be further processed into foods such as powdered milks and cheeses, infant formula, and baked goods. One such set of plasticisers that is being evaluated for frequency of use, potential routes of exposure, and risk to consumers is ortho-phthalates, hereafter referred to as phthalates. In order to better understand the actual use of phthalate versus non-phthalate plasticised tubing, a robust, rapid, and portable analytical method is necessary for on-site screening. Laboratory Raman and near-infrared spectrometers have been used extensively for polymer and additive evaluation, and advances in portable/hand-held technology could lead to feasible plasticiser evaluation in the field. This research overviews efforts to evaluate six portable spectroscopy devices for their ability to identify phthalate versus non-phthalate plasticised polyvinyl chloride (PVC) dairy tubing, liners, and gaskets. The most successful method, a hand-held Raman spectrometer along with a plasticiser spectral library or a chemometric model, can rapidly and accurately identify phthalate containing PVC and has the potential to be employed as a future field screening technique for regulators and the dairy industry.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals used as common plastic additives: Levels, profiles, and human dietary exposure from the Indian food basket

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as phthalic acid esters (PAEs) and bisphenol A (BPA) are the most widely used plastic additives in polymeric materials. These EDCs are ubiquitously distributed in the environment. Hence selected PAEs and BPA were investigated in twenty-five food types and drinking water (supply and packaged) from the metropolitan city, Delhi, and the peri-urban areas of a non-metropolitan city, Dehradun. Except cabbage and orange, the sum of thirteen PAEs (∑₁₃PAEs) and BPA in all the other food types were significantly higher in Delhi over Dehradun (p < 0.01). Highest mean ∑₁₃PAEs (665 ng/g) and BPA (73 ng/g) were observed in cottage cheese and potatoes, respectively followed by fish (PAEs - 477 ng/g, BPA - 16 ng/g). Supply water from the west zone of Delhi was found to contain the highest concentration of BPA (309 ng/L) and ∑₁₃PAEs (5765 ng/L) with the dominance of diethyl phthalate (DEP). Based on the compositional profile and compound-wise principal component analysis, environmental contamination and food processing were attributed as significant sources of most priority PAEs in food samples. Di-ethyl hexyl phthalate (DEHP) was over 100-fold higher in the bottled water from local brands than composite bottled water samples. Packaging material was identified as a source for di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) in packaged food. This study observed the highest estimated daily dietary intake (EDI) in the high-fat-containing food products viz., cottage cheese, and fish from north Delhi. High bioaccumulation of BPA can be a possible reason for elevated EDI in vegetables and local fish of Delhi. Unlike Dehradun, EDI for ∑₁₃PAEs and BPA was slightly higher for the non-vegetarian adult when compared to the vegetarian adult. DEHP and DnBP exhibited the highest estimated estrogenic potential for bottled water from local brands. Dietary exposure due to six priority PAEs contamination in food stuffs was two to four-fold higher in Delhi than Dehradun for adult man and woman.

Dietary correlates of urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations in 6-19 Year old children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

Children are vulnerable to adverse health effects associated with phthalates, and food is one source of exposure. A comprehensive analysis investigating urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations in relation to food type and source has yet to be undertaken.

OBJECTIVES

We use reduced rank regression, a dimension reduction method, to identify dietary patterns associated with urinary phthalate metabolites in children in a large US study.

METHODS

We used data from 2369 participants 6-19 years old from the 2011-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey who recalled their diet over the 24 h prior to urine collection. We used dietary data to estimate intake and source (i.e., prepared at a restaurant vs. purchased from a grocery store) of 136 food groups. We used reduced rank regression to identify dietary patterns explaining variation in overall urinary concentrations of ∑di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate and seven phthalate metabolites. We also examined pairwise associations between food groups and urinary phthalate metabolites.

RESULTS

We identified eight dietary patterns that cumulatively explained 12.1% of variation in urinary phthalate metabolites, including a dietary pattern characterized by certain starchy vegetables (e.g., plantains and lima beans), quick breads, and citrus juice prepared at a restaurant. A one SD increase in this food pattern score was associated with a 37.2% higher monocarboxyoctyl phthalate (MCOP) concentration (95% CI: 30.3, 44.4). We also observed weak associations between certain food groups and urinary phthalate metabolites (e.g., a one SD increase in intake of certain starchy vegetables prepared at a restaurant was associated with a 1.8% [95% CI: 0.7, 2.8] higher MCOP).

CONCLUSIONS

Children whose diets were characterized by higher consumption of certain starchy vegetables, quick breads, and citrus juices prepared at a restaurant had higher urinary phthalate metabolites. More detailed information on the specific methods of food processing and details on packaging materials is needed.

Pesticide Residue Trends in Fruits and Vegetables from Farm to Fork in Kampala Metropolitan Area, Uganda-A Mixed Methods Study

This mixed methods study used laboratory measurements of pesticide residues in produce, semi-structured questionnaires, and in-depth interview data to describe trends in pesticide residue in produce and handling and processing practices for fruits (watermelon and passion fruit) and vegetables (tomato, cabbage, and eggplant) along the farm to fork chain. Of the 50 farmers visited, 34 (68.0%) sold their fruits and vegetables to transporters, 11 (22.0%) to market vendors, and 4 (8.0%) directly to homes and restaurants. The majority 42 (93.3%) of the consumers (home/restaurant) purchased their fruits and vegetables from market vendors and transporters. Washing with water or vinegar, wiping with a cloth, peeling the outer layer, and blending and cooking were the most common post-harvesting processing methods used by stakeholders along the supply chain. Some farmers and market vendors reported spraying fruits and vegetables with pesticides either prior- or post-harvest to increase shelf life. Statistically significant decreasing pesticide residue trends along the farm to fork chain were observed for dioxacarb, likely due to degradation or washing, peeling, cooking, blending, or wiping by consumers. Increasing trends were observed for methidathion and quinalphos possibly due to pesticide applications. There is a need in Uganda to promote practices that minimize pesticide use and exposure through diet, while maintaining food integrity.

Dietary intake and household exposures as predictors of urinary concentrations of high molecular weight phthalates and bisphenol A in a cohort of adolescents

BACKGROUND

Phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) are endocrine disrupting chemicals used in consumer products, building materials, and food processing and packaging materials. They are associated with adverse health outcomes, especially when exposure occurs during heightened windows of susceptibility.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the relationship between housing and dietary characteristics and the concentration of several high-molecular-weight (HMW) phthalate metabolites and BPA in a cohort of Latina adolescents.

METHODS

We collected information on recent food consumption and housing characteristics and quantified the concentration of HMW phthalate and BPA metabolites in urine collected at two different time points. We used generalized estimating equations (GEE) to assess predictors of each metabolite.

RESULTS

No significant associations were observed between housing and dietary characteristics and metabolites of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) or BPA. In contrast, higher urinary monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP) concentration was associated with living in a home with vinyl or linoleum flooring (66.7% change, p-value <0.01), while higher urinary mono(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP) concentration was associated with recent consumption of coffee (47.2% change, p-value <0.01), and fast food (30.3% change, p-value <0.05).

SIGNIFICANCE

These findings may be useful in targeting interventions that reduce phthalate uptake in young adults.

Food Processing and Phthalate Exposure: The Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (1993-1996 and 2005-2008)

Background: Phthalates esters are widely used commercially and can leach from a food container or food packaging. Few studies have been conducted in Asia regarding food processed to varying levels and human phthalate exposure. This study aimed to evaluate the association between unprocessed and ultra-processed food intake and urinary phthalate metabolite levels in the Taiwanese adult population.

Methods: A total of 516 participant data were extracted from the cross-sectional 1993–1996 and 2005–2008 Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan of those aged over 18 years, where urinary measures and one 24-h dietary recall were collected. Urinary concentrations of dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, butyl benzyl phthalate, and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate metabolites including monomethyl phthalate, monoethyl phthalate (MEP), monobutyl phthalate (MBP), monobenzyl phthalate, mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate, and mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate were measured in spot urine samples. The NOVA food processing classification system was applied to divide all consumed foods into four mutually exclusive groups including unprocessed or minimally processed, processed culinary ingredients, processed and ultra-processed food. Generalized linear models were employed to examine the associations between the percentage quartiles (Qs) of unprocessed and ultra-processed foods in the total weight of food and the urinary phthalate metabolites.

Results: Compared with participants in the lowest quartiles (Q1) of ultra-processed food intake, highest ultra-processed food intake (Q4) had 65.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.83, 162) higher urinary concentrations of MEP after adjusted for covariates. In contrast, the higher unprocessed food consumption was inversely associated with urinary concentrations of MEP and MBP (P for trend = 0.03). When compared to the lowest unprocessed food consumers (Q1), higher consumers (Q4) presented 38.6% (95% CI: −61.3, −2.59) lower MEP concentrations and 23.1% (95% CI: −38.5, −3.71) lower MBP concentrations.

Conclusion: Ultra-processed food consumption was associated with increased concentrations of urinary MEP. Conversely, consuming unprocessed food was associated with lower concentrations of MEP and MBP in the Asian Taiwanese adult population.

Exposure estimates of phthalates and DINCH from foods and personal care products in comparison with biomonitoring data in 24-hour urine from the Norwegian EuroMix biomonitoring study

Phthalates are diesters of phthalic acid and have been widely used as plasticizers in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics. Phthalates are also used as excipients in pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PCPs). Phthalates can migrate from the plastic into the air, water and food, and humans can be exposed via multiple pathways such as dermal, oral and inhalation. There is evidence that phthalates can induce reproductive and developmental toxicity not only in experimental animals but also in humans through disruption of estrogenic activity. The aim of this study was to collect concentration data on five phthalates in foods and PCPs from the scientific literature and combine these with food consumption data and PCP use frequency data from the EuroMix biomonitoring (BM) study in order to assess exposure. Probabilistic exposure assessments of phthalates were performed from foods and PCPs. Due to the very limited data available in the literature for DINCH, an exposure assessment was not carried out for this compound. The food groups with the highest contribution to phthalates exposure were: beverages, dairy, bread and meat products. The exposure estimates were compared with the measured phthalate metabolite levels from 24-hour urine samples. Regarding the oral route, measured phthalate exposure was between the lower bound (LB) and medium bound (MB) estimated exposure for all phthalates, except for DEP. The measured exposure from urine correlated with the estimated exposure from food for DEHP and DBP, while for BBP and DEP it correlated with the exposure estimates from PCPs. There were no significant differences between the BM data and the estimated exposure, except for DINP for males (p = 0.01). The LB and MB phthalate exposures estimated from foods and PCPs and the measured exposure from the urine were considerably lower than their respective tolerable daily intake (TDI) values established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). For the upper bound (UB), the exposure estimates are approximately double the TDI; however, this is regarded as a worst-case estimate and has low correlation with the measured exposure.

Low-dose Bisphenol-A Promotes Epigenetic Changes at Pparγ Promoter in Adipose Precursor Cells

Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as Bisphenol-A (BPA) is associated with an increase in obesity prevalence. Diet is the primary cause of human exposure to this contaminant. BPA promotes obesity by inducing adipocyte dysfunction and altering adipogenesis. Contradictory evidence and unanswered questions are reported in the literature concerning the BPA effects on adipogenesis. To clarify this issue, we tested the effects of prolonged low-dose BPA exposure on different phases of adipogenesis in committed 3T3L1 and uncommitted NIH3T3 preadipocytes. Our findings show that BPA effects on the adipogenesis are mediated by epigenetic mechanisms by reducing peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparγ) promoter methylation in preadipocytes. Nevertheless, in BPA-exposed 3T3L1, Pparγ expression only transiently increases as lipid accumulation at day 4 of differentiation, without altering the adipogenic potential of the precursor cells. In the absence of differentiation mix, BPA does not make the 3T3L1 an in vitro model of spontaneous adipogenesis and the effects on the Pparγ expression are still limited at day 4 of differentiation. Furthermore, BPA exposure does not commit the NIH3T3 to the adipocyte lineage, although Pparγ overexpression is more evident both in preadipocytes and during the adipocyte differentiation. Interestingly, termination of the BPA exposure restores the Pparγ promoter methylation and inflammatory profile of the 3T3L1 cells. This study shows that BPA induces epigenetic changes in a key adipogenic gene. These modifications are reversible and do not affect preadipocyte commitment and/or differentiation. We identify an alternative transcriptional mechanism by which BPA affects gene expression and demonstrate how the challenge of preventing exposure is fundamental for human health.

Phthalates in the diet of Mexican children of school age. Risk analysis

Phthalates are widely used as plasticizers, additives, or solvents. Its extensive use has generated environmental and food contamination, which implies continuous population exposure. The aim of this work was to determine the probability of health risk of Mexican children exposed to phthalates through the consumption of contaminated food. A survey was applied to 384 Mexican school-age children (between 6 and 12 years old), to find out the type of food they eat most frequently, based on this, a research was made to know the concentration of phthalates contained in these foods. The daily intake had been calculated with the concentration of phthalates reported in food, obtaining: DEHP (19.50 μg/kg body weight/day), DnBP (5.52 μg/kg body weight/day) y for DEP (1.12 μg/kg body weight/day). The hazard index (HI) for DEP y DEHP was 0.49 to 42.5 for internal organs damage reported. HI for reproductive health damage due to exposure to DnBT and DEHP was of 0.04 to 5.58, so that there is a high probability that children's health is at risk. Therefore, it is necessary to a quantitative analysis of phthalates in food consumed in Latin American countries and establish the TDI of phthalates especially, to DEHP, which was obtained the higher HI.

Critical Review on the Presence of Phthalates in Food and Evidence of Their Biological Impact

Phthalates are a huge class of chemicals with a wide spectrum of industrial uses, from the manufacture of plastics to food contact applications, children's toys, and medical devices. People and animals can be exposed through different routes (i.e., ingestion, inhalation, dermal, or iatrogenic exposure), as these compounds can be easily released from plastics to water, food, soil, air, making them ubiquitous environmental contaminants. In the last decades, phthalates and their metabolites have proven to be of concern, particularly in products for pregnant women or children. Moreover, many authors reported high concentrations of phthalates in soft drinks, mineral waters, wine, oil, ready-to-eat meals, and other products, as a possible consequence of their accumulation along the food production chain and their accidental release from packaging materials. However, due to their different physical and chemical properties, phthalates do not have the same human and environmental impacts and their association to several human diseases is still under debate. In this review we provide an overview of phthalate toxicity, pointing out the health and legal issues related to their occurrence in several types of food and beverage.

Fetal-Maternal Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors: Correlation with Diet Intake and Pregnancy Outcomes

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances able to mimic or to interfere with the endocrine system, thus altering key biological processes such as organ development, reproduction, immunity, metabolism and behavior. High concentrations of EDCs are found in several everyday products including plastic bottles and food containers and they could be easily absorbed by dietary intake. In recent years, considerable interest has been raised regarding the biological effects of EDCs, particularly Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, on human pregnancy and fetal development. Several evidence obtained on in vitro and animal models as well as by epidemiologic and population studies strongly indicated that endocrine disruptors could negatively impact fetal and placental health by interfering with the embryonic developing epigenome, thus establishing disease paths into adulthood. Moreover, EDCs could cause and/or contribute to the onset of severe gestational conditions as Preeclampsia (PE), Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) and gestational diabetes in pregnancy, as well as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular complications in reproductive age. Therefore, despite contrasting data being present in the literature, endocrine disruptors must be considered as a therapeutic target. Future actions aimed at reducing or eliminating EDC exposure during the perinatal period are mandatory to guarantee pregnancy success and preserve fetal and adult health.

Bisphenol A and Phthalates in Diet: An Emerging Link with Pregnancy Complications

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances that are able to interfere with hormone action, likely contributing to the development of several endocrine and metabolic diseases. Among them, Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates contaminate food and water and have been largely studied as obesogenic agents. They might contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in pregnancy, potentially playing a role in the development of pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and adverse outcomes. Pregnancy and childhood are sensitive windows of susceptibility, and, although with not univocal results, preclinical and clinical studies have suggested that exposure to BPA and phthalates at these stages of life might have an impact on the development of metabolic diseases even many years later. The molecular mechanisms underlying this association are largely unknown, but adipocyte and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction are suspected to be involved. Remarkably, transgenerational damage has been observed, which might be explained by epigenetic changes. Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps and to provide preventive measure to limit health risks connected with exposure to EDCs.

Update of the risk assessment of di-butylphthalate (DBP), butyl-benzyl-phthalate (BBP), bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), di-isononylphthalate (DINP) and di-isodecylphthalate (DIDP) for use in food contact materials

The EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes and Processing Aids (CEP Panel) was asked by the European Commission to update its 2005 risk assessments of di-butylphthalate (DBP), butyl-benzyl-phthalate (BBP), bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), di-isononylphthalate (DINP) and di-isodecylphthalate (DIDP), which are authorised for use in plastic food contact material (FCM). Dietary exposure estimates (mean and high (P95)) were obtained by combining literature occurrence data with consumption data from the EFSA Comprehensive Database. The highest exposure was found for DINP, ranging from 0.2 to 4.3 and from 0.4 to 7.0 μg/kg body weight (bw) per day for mean and high consumers, respectively. There was not enough information to draw conclusions on how much migration from plastic FCM contributes to dietary exposure to phthalates. The review of the toxicological data focused mainly on reproductive effects. The CEP Panel derived the same critical effects and individual tolerable daily intakes (TDIs) (mg/kg bw per day) as in 2005 for all the phthalates, i.e. reproductive effects for DBP (0.01), BBP (0.5), DEHP (0.05), and liver effects for DINP and DIDP (0.15 each). Based on a plausible common mechanism (i.e. reduction in fetal testosterone) underlying the reproductive effects of DEHP, DBP and BBP, the Panel considered it appropriate to establish a group-TDI for these phthalates, taking DEHP as index compound as a basis for introducing relative potency factors. The Panel noted that DINP also affected fetal testosterone levels at doses around threefold higher than liver effects and therefore considered it conservative to include it within the group-TDI which was established to be 50 μg/kg bw per day, expressed as DEHP equivalents. The aggregated dietary exposure for DBP, BBP, DEHP and DINP was estimated to be 0.9-7.2 and 1.6-11.7 μg/kg bw per day for mean and high consumers, respectively, thus contributing up to 23% of the group-TDI in the worst-case scenario. For DIDP, not included in the group-TDI, dietary exposure was estimated to be always below 0.1 μg/kg bw per day and therefore far below the TDI of 150 μg/kg bw per day. This assessment covers European consumers of any age, including the most sensitive groups. Based on the limited scope of the mandate and the uncertainties identified, the Panel considered that the current assessment of the five phthalates, individually and collectively, should be on a temporary basis.

Dietary Predictors of Phthalate and Bisphenol Exposures in Pregnant Women

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can disrupt fetal developmental processes during pregnancy, leading to long-term adverse outcomes in humans. A major source of exposure to EDCs, such as phthalates and bisphenols, is the food supply, primarily due to contamination from processing and packaging. Therefore, this review aimed to 1) review food-monitoring sources of phthalates and bisphenols, and 2) evaluate methodologies and provide future directions needed to establish EDC-limiting dietary recommendations in pregnancy. Using PubMed, 10 peer-reviewed studies were found on dietary predictors of EDC exposure in pregnancy, and all were selected for review. Use of plastic containers in pregnancy was associated with higher urinary phthalate metabolites, whereas canned food consumption was associated with higher urinary bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations. Foods and dietary patterns associated with healthier food choices (e.g., organic/grown/raised/caught foods, folic acid supplements, vegetarianism) were generally associated with lower urinary phthalate metabolite and BPA concentrations. Despite the many food-monitoring studies reporting high BPA and phthalate concentrations in various foods, the designs of most studies described here were not sufficiently robust to consistently detect associations of specific foods/food groups with phthalates and BPA. Given the limitations of currently available research, future studies should incorporate more valid questionnaires to accurately assess dietary EDC exposure, strive for concurrent diet and exposure assessment, and assess whether geographical and cultural differences modify associations of diet with gestational EDC exposures. Such progress will be critical for developing dietary recommendations that ensure the safety and health of pregnant women.

Determination of Five Sex Hormones in Urine Samples for Early Evaluation of Male Reproductive Toxicity Induced by Phthalate Esters in Rats

In this work, male rats were exposed to multiple phthalate esters (MIXPs) in a long-term low-dose model for the early evaluation of reproductive toxicity. An ananlysis method with better sensitivity, accuracy and precision was established to determine the five sex hormones (androstenedione, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and estrone) in collected urine samples. The results showed that all the analytes in the MIXPs treated group changed in a time-dependent manner. Specifically, estrone significantly decreased from the 30th day and the other four changed from the 30th day and then significantly increased on the 60th day, while no obvious changes were found in the control group. Therefore, a possible way was provided for the early evaluation of male reproductive toxicity induced by Phthalate esters (PEs) . The reliability of judgment was improved by observing the changes of five target hormones simultaneously. Furthermore, good compliance was predicted for the practical application due to the noninvasive and convenient urine sample collection.

Prenatal exposure estimation of BPA and DEHP using integrated external and internal dosimetry: A case study

Prenatal exposure to Endocrine disruptors (EDs), such as Bisphenol A (BPA) and di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), has been associated with obesity and diabetes diseases in childhood, as well as reproductive, behavioral and neurodevelopment problems. The aim of this study was to estimate the prenatal exposure to BPA and DEHP through food consumption for pregnant women living in Tarragona County (Spain). Probabilistic calculations of prenatal exposure were estimated by integrated external and internal dosimetry modelling, physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model, using a Monte-Carlo simulation. Physical characteristic data from the cohort, along with food intake information from the questionnaires (concentrations of BPA and DEHP in different food categories and the range of the different food ratios), were used to estimate the value of the total dietary intake for the Tarragona pregnancy cohort. The major contributors to the total dietary intake of BPA were canned fruits and vegetables, followed by canned meat and meat products. In turn, milk and dairy products, followed by ready to eat food (including canned dinners), were the most important contributors to the total dietary intake of DEHP. Despite the dietary variations among the participants, the intakes of both chemicals were considerably lower than their respective current tolerable daily intake (TDI) values established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Internal dosimetry estimates suggest that the plasma concentrations of free BPA and the most important DEHP metabolite, mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), in pregnant women were characterized by transient peaks (associated with meals) and short half-lives (< 2h). In contrast, fetal exposure was characterized by a low and sustained basal BPA and MEHP concentration due to a lack of metabolic activity in the fetus. Therefore, EDs may have a greater effect on developing organs in young children or in the unborn child.

Exposure to phthalates in children aged 5-7years: Associations with thyroid function and insulin-like growth factors

This study aimed to evaluate the associations between phthalate concentrations and thyroid function in preschool children. We collected demographic data and biological samples from 216 children aged 5-7years. We calculated urinary concentrations of eight mono-phthalate metabolites (mPAEs) separately for children from urban and rural areas and investigated their associations with thyroid function and growth hormones. mPAE concentrations were higher in children from the urban area than in those from the rural area, and most mPAEs were positively associated with free triiodothyronine and free thyroxine. The insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentration decreased 0.082ng/mL (95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.34, -0.113) with each 1ng/mL increase in monomethyl phthalate (MMP) and 0.132ng/mL (95% CI: -0.209, -0.055) with each 1ng/mL increase in mono-n-butyl phthalate. The insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 concentration decreased by 0.01mg/L (95% CI: -0.001, -0.000) or 0.01mg/L (95% CI: -0.003, -0.000) with each 1ng/mL increase in MMP or monoethyl phthalate, respectively. Exposure to some phthalates at 5-7years of age might interfere with thyroid hormones and growth.

Approaches to Children's Exposure Assessment: Case Study with Diethylhexylphthalate (DEHP)

Children's exposure assessment is a key input into epidemiology studies, risk assessment and source apportionment. The goals of this article are to describe a methodology for children's exposure assessment that can be used for these purposes and to apply the methodology to source apportionment for the case study chemical, diethylhexylphthalate (DEHP). A key feature is the comparison of total (aggregate) exposure calculated via a pathways approach to that derived from a biomonitoring approach. The 4-step methodology and its results for DEHP are: (1) Prioritization of life stages and exposure pathways, with pregnancy, breast-fed infants, and toddlers the focus of the case study and pathways selected that are relevant to these groups; (2) Estimation of pathway-specific exposures by life stage wherein diet was found to be the largest contributor for pregnant women, breast milk and mouthing behavior for the nursing infant and diet, house dust, and mouthing for toddlers; (3) Comparison of aggregate exposure by pathways vs biomonitoring-based approaches wherein good concordance was found for toddlers and pregnant women providing confidence in the exposure assessment; (4) Source apportionment in which DEHP presence in foods, children's products, consumer products and the built environment are discussed with respect to early life mouthing, house dust and dietary exposure. A potential fifth step of the method involves the calculation of exposure doses for risk assessment which is described but outside the scope for the current case study. In summary, the methodology has been used to synthesize the available information to identify key sources of early life exposure to DEHP.

New insights into the risk of phthalates: Inhibition of UDP-glucuronosyltransferases

Wide utilization of phthalates-containing products results in the significant exposure of humans to these compounds. Many adverse effects of phthalates have been documented in rodent models, but their effects in humans exposed to these chemicals remain unclear until more mechanistic studies on phthalate toxicities can be carried out. To provide new insights to predict the potential adverse effects of phthalates in humans, the recent study investigated the inhibition of representative phthalates di-n-octyl ortho-phthalate (DNOP) and diphenyl phthalate (DPhP) towards the important xenobiotic and endobiotic-metabolizing UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs). An in vitro UGTs incubation system was employed to study the inhibition of DNOP and DPhP towards UGT isoforms. DPhP and DNOP weakly inhibited the activities of UGT1A1, UGT1A7, and UGT1A8. 100 µM of DNOP inhibited the activities of UGT1A3, UGT1A9, and UGT2B7 by 41.8% (p < 0.01), 45.6% (p < 0.01), and 48.8% (p < 0.01), respectively. 100 µM of DPhP inhibited the activity of UGT1A3, UGT1A6, and UGT1A9 by 81.8 (p < 0.001), 49.1% (p < 0.05), and 76.4% (p < 0.001), respectively. In silico analysis was used to explain the stronger inhibition of DPhP than DNOP towards UGT1A3 activity. Kinetics studies were carried our to determine mechanism of inhibition of UGT1A3 by DPhP. Both Dixon and Lineweaver-Burk plots showed the competitive inhibition of DPhP towards UGT1A3. The inhibition kinetic parameter (Ki) was calculated to be 0.89 µM. Based on the [I]/Ki standard ([I]/Ki < 0.1, low possibility; 1>[I]/Ki > 0.1, medium possibility; [I]/Ki > 1, high possibility), these studies predicted in vivo drug-drug interaction might occur when the plasma concentration of DPhP was above 0.089 µM. Taken together, this study reveales the potential for adverse effects of phthalates DNOP and DPhP as a result of UGT inhibition.

Phthalate esters contamination in soils and vegetables of plastic film greenhouses of suburb Nanjing, China and the potential human health risk

The contamination of phthalate esters (PAEs) has become a potential threat to the environment and human health because they could be easily released as plasticizers from the daily supply products, especially in polyethylene films. Concentration levels of total six PAEs, nominated as priority pollutants by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), were investigated in soils and vegetables from four greenhouse areas in suburbs of Nanjing, East China. Total PAEs concentration ranged from 930 ± 840 to 2,450 ± 710 μg kg(-1) (dry weight (DW)) in soil and from 790 ± 630 to 3,010 ± 2,130 μg kg(-1) in vegetables. Higher concentrations of PAEs were found in soils except in Suo Shi (SS) area and in vegetables, especially in potherb mustard and purple tsai-tai samples. Risk assessment mainly based on the exposures of soil ingestion and daily vegetable intake indicated that bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in the samples from Gu Li (GL) and Hu Shu (HS) exhibited the highest hazard to children less than 6-year old. Therefore, the human health risk of the PAEs contamination in soils and vegetables should greatly be of a concern, especially for their environmental estrogen analog effects.

Impact of low molecular weight phthalates in inducing reproductive malfunctions in male mice: Special emphasis on Sertoli cell functions

Phthalates are commonly used as plasticizers in a variety of products. Since they have been identified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), effect of phthalates on human health is a major concern. In this study, we evaluated individual as well as combined mixture effects of three low molecular weight phthalates on the reproductive system of male mice, specifically on the Sertoli cell structure and function. In order to analyze the blood testes barrier (BTB) dynamics, primary culture of Sertoli cells from 3-weeks old male mice was used for mimicking typical tight junction structures. Male mice were exposed to long-term (45 days) and combined mixture of three phthalates, diethyl phthalate (DEP), diphenyl phthalate (DPP), and dimethyl isophthalate (DMIP) between pre-pubertal to adult stage. Our data showed significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the rates of transcription of certain prominent Sertoli cell specific genes like transferrin, testin and occludin. Moreover, we also observed significant decreases in the expression of proteins like 3β-HSD, connexin-43 and occludin in testicular lysates of treated animals (p < 0.05). The transmission electron microscopic analysis revealed that the test compounds significantly altered the structural integrity of Sertoli cells. The significant changes of Sertoli cell tight junction structure by test compounds were associated with phosphorylation of ERK. Taken together, our study suggests that low molecular weight phthalates may affect male fertility by altering both structural and functional integrity of Sertoli cells in testes.

Concentrations of phthalate metabolites in breast milk in Korea: estimating exposure to phthalates and potential risks among breast-fed infants

Phthalates have been associated with endocrine disruption and developmental effects in many experimental and epidemiological studies. Developing infants are among the most susceptible populations to endocrine disruption. However, limited information is available on phthalate exposure and its associated risks among breast-fed newborn infants. In the present study, breast milk samples were collected from 62 lactating mothers at 1 month post-partum from four cities of Korea in 2012 and were evaluated for six phthalate metabolites (mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), mono(2-ethyl-hexyl) phthalate (MEHP), mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP), mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP) and monoethyl phthalate (MEP)). MEP was detected in all breast milk samples, with a median concentration of 0.37 μg/L, and MiBP, MnBP and MEHP were detected in 79-89% of samples, with median concentrations of 1.10, 1.70, and 2.08 μg/L, respectively. However, MEHHP and MEOHP, the oxidized forms of di-ethyl-hexyl phthalate (DEHP), were detected in only one sample. For exposure assessment, the levels of phthalate diesters were estimated based on the parent:metabolite ratios in the breast milk that are reported elsewhere. For risk assessment, the endocrine-related toxicity of the monoester was assumed to be the same as that of its diester form. Median daily intake estimates of phthalates, including both monoester and diester forms, through breast milk consumption ranged between 0.91 and 6.52 μg/kg body weight (bw) for DEHP and between 0.38 and 1.43 μg/kg bw for di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP). Based on the estimated daily intake, up to 8% of infants exceeded the reference dose of anti-androgenicity (RfD AA) for DEHP, and 6% of infants exceeded the tolerable daily intake (TDI) for DnBP. Breast milk MiBP and MnBP concentrations showed significant positive associations with maternal consumption of whipped cream or purified water. Considering vulnerability of young infants, efforts to mitigate phthalate exposure among lactating women are warranted.

Toxicity and estrogenic endocrine disrupting activity of phthalates and their mixtures

Phthalates, widely used in flexible plastics and consumer products, have become ubiquitous contaminants worldwide. This study evaluated the acute toxicity and estrogenic endocrine disrupting activity of butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), di(n-butyl) phthalate (DBP), bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP), diisononyl phthalate (DINP), di-n-octyl phthalate (DNOP) and their mixtures. Using a 72 h zebrafish embryo toxicity test, the LC₅₀ values of BBP, DBP and a mixture of the six phthalates were found to be 0.72, 0.63 and 0.50 ppm, respectively. The other four phthalates did not cause more than 50% exposed embryo mortality even at their highest soluble concentrations. The typical toxicity symptoms caused by phthalates were death, tail curvature, necrosis, cardio edema and no touch response. Using an estrogen-responsive ChgH-EGFP transgenic medaka (Oryzias melastigma) eleutheroembryos based 24 h test, BBP demonstrated estrogenic activity, DBP, DEHP, DINP and the mixture of the six phthalates exhibited enhanced-estrogenic activity and DIDP and DNOP showed no enhanced- or anti-estrogenic activity. These findings highlighted the developmental toxicity of BBP and DBP, and the estrogenic endocrine disrupting activity of BBP, DBP, DEHP and DINP on intact organisms, indicating that the widespread use of these phthalates may cause potential health risks to human beings.

Urinary phthalate metabolites among elementary school children of Korea: sources, risks, and their association with oxidative stress marker

Phthalates have been used in a variety of consumer products and hence frequently been detected in humans. Children are susceptible to endocrine disrupting chemicals such as phthalates, but only limited information is available on the sources of exposure and potential adverse health effects among children. In this study, elementary school students (n=39, aged 9-12 years) were recruited in Seoul, and first void urine samples were collected twice in three-day intervals. Then six phthalate metabolites were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry. In addition, malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidative stress marker was measured. A questionnaire was conducted and information on food consumption and the use of plastic packaging or storage materials was gathered. The concentrations of phthalate metabolites varied substantially by sampling time even within the same subject, but all target metabolites were detected in 100% of the samples with the highest geometric mean of 107 μg/g-creatinine for mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP). Urinary levels of mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), and MnBP among Korean children were 8 and 3 times greater than those reported for US children, but those of monoethyl phthalate (MEP) were about 5 times lower than those of US children. Estimated phthalate intakes were generally in safe range, but in 3-8% of the participating children, the hazard quotients greater than one were noted. Urinary MDA concentrations were significantly associated with several metabolite levels after adjusting covariates in regression model. Consumption of dairy products or meat, and use of a plastic material were significantly associated with the DEHP metabolites or MnBP levels in multivariate model. The results of this study provide evidence of the association between phthalate exposure and oxidative stress especially among the early teenagers, and identified major sources that can be applied to development of management plan for phthalate exposure among children.