Latest CSE study finds high levels of toxic phthalates in
children’s toys in India. Phthalates are chemicals used in toys
to soften plastic. Exposure to them can lead to a wide range of
health disorders. They are especially dangerous for children
under three years, who tend to put these toys in their mouth.
CSE lab tests found phthalates in all samples of toys tested --
over 45 per cent exceeded the internationally accepted safe
limit. India has no regulations to control use of phthalates in
toys. It only has voluntary standards covering safety aspects of
toys. On January 23, 2010, the Indian government’s ban on import
of toys not meeting these standards will end. In the unregulated
free-for-all that threatens to follow, health of children will
be compromised, putting them at a huge risk. New Delhi, January
15, 2010: Plastic toys being sold in India can seriously
jeopardise the health of children playing with them, as they may
contain an extremely toxic chemical, says Centre for Science and
Environment (CSE).