What is DEHP and How Does it Enter Food?
DEHP (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate) is a chemical plasticizer added to materials to make them more flexible and durable, most notably polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics. Unlike chemicals that are chemically bonded, DEHP is loosely bound and can easily leach out and contaminate its surroundings. This process is accelerated by heat and contact with fatty substances, which readily absorb the chemical.
DEHP enters the food supply chain through various routes:
- Food processing equipment: PVC tubing, conveyor belts, and handling gloves used during manufacturing and packaging can all be sources of contamination.
- Food packaging: DEHP can migrate directly from plastic films, gaskets in lids, and other plastic packaging materials into the food itself.
- Environmental contamination: Phthalates are ubiquitous environmental pollutants and can enter the food chain through contaminated soil, water, and animal feed.
Research has consistently shown that the highest levels of DEHP are found in foods that are high in fat or have undergone significant processing.
Foods with Elevated Levels of DEHP
High-Fat Dairy Products
Dairy is a significant source of dietary DEHP, with contamination often occurring during processing. Higher-fat products show the highest concentrations due to DEHP's fat-soluble nature.
- Cream and Butter: Studies have found particularly high DEHP levels in cream and butter, with one review noting concentrations up to 10 times higher in cream than in milk.
- Cheese: Various types of cheese have shown elevated DEHP content, likely from contamination during handling and packaging.
- Milk: Even milk in glass bottles can be contaminated from passing through PVC tubing during the milking process. However, concentrations vary, and they are typically lower than in higher-fat dairy items.
Processed Meats and Poultry
Like dairy, meat and poultry products can absorb DEHP during processing. Fatty meat products are of particular concern.
- Poultry: Several food monitoring studies have consistently found high concentrations of DEHP in poultry products.
- Other Meats: While levels can be more variable, other meats and organ meats have also been linked to increased DEHP exposure.
Fats and Oils
This category represents one of the most heavily contaminated food groups due to the high fat content and extensive processing required for many products.
- Cooking Oils and Margarine: Studies have reported some of the highest DEHP concentrations in cooking oils, fats, and margarine.
Ultra-Processed and Packaged Foods
Anything that is highly processed or comes in extensive plastic packaging is a potential source of DEHP.
- Fast Food: Studies have repeatedly linked fast-food consumption to higher phthalate levels in the body, which can be a result of contact with plastic gloves and fatty food preparations.
- Canned Goods: Even canned foods can contain phthalates from lid gaskets and other components used in processing. For example, one Consumer Reports study found very high levels in canned ravioli.
How DEHP Contaminates Different Food Types
To better understand the risk, it is helpful to compare how DEHP levels vary between food types and processing methods.
| Food Category | Likelihood of DEHP Contamination | Primary Contamination Route | Typical Examples (High Risk) |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Fat Dairy | High | Processing equipment (tubing), packaging | Cream, butter, cheese |
| Meat/Poultry | High to Variable | Processing, handling gloves | Fatty poultry, cured meats |
| Fats & Oils | Very High | Processing, storage | Cooking oils, margarine, lard |
| Ultra-Processed | High | Processing equipment, plastic packaging | Fast food, canned meals, pre-packaged snacks |
| Fresh Produce | Low | Environmental sources, minimal packaging | Loose fruits and vegetables |
Strategies to Reduce Your DEHP Exposure
Minimizing your dietary exposure to DEHP is achievable by making conscious choices at the grocery store and in the kitchen. Focus on reducing your reliance on processed and packaged foods.
In the kitchen:
- Use non-plastic storage: Transfer food from plastic packaging into glass, ceramic, or stainless steel containers, especially for storing hot foods or leftovers.
- Avoid microwaving in plastic: Heat can cause DEHP to leach at a higher rate. Always use glass or ceramic containers for microwave cooking.
- Wash kitchenware by hand: High temperatures in dishwashers can degrade plastics and release chemicals. Hand-washing is safer for plastic items.
- Choose alternative kitchen tools: Use stainless steel or wood cutting boards instead of plastic ones that can shed microplastics into your food.
When grocery shopping:
- Prioritize fresh, whole foods: Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats instead of packaged or pre-made options.
- Reduce consumption of high-fat foods: Since DEHP is fat-soluble, moderating your intake of high-fat dairy, oils, and fatty meats can lower your exposure.
- Look for non-plastic packaging: Choose foods packaged in glass, paper, or metal whenever possible.
While completely eliminating DEHP is nearly impossible given its prevalence, these steps can help significantly reduce your overall dietary intake. For more information on environmental health concerns, an authoritative resource is the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
Conclusion
DEHP contamination in food is a widespread issue, primarily stemming from plastic materials used during processing and packaging. Fatty and highly processed foods are the most susceptible to absorbing this chemical, including certain dairy products, meats, and cooking oils. While avoiding all exposure is difficult, adopting simple habits like minimizing processed food intake, choosing fresh ingredients, and using non-plastic containers can dramatically reduce your personal dietary exposure. This proactive approach empowers consumers to make healthier choices for themselves and their families by being mindful of what's in their food and how it's handled.
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