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Some plastic teethers for babies may contain some endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), a new study has found. Findings from this study are published are in the Journal of Applied Toxicology.
The effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals, which are associated with leaching from plastics, have been an issue of concern with infants as they are especially vulnerable to EDCs. Researchers examined whether plastic teethers were a relevant source of exposure. They used bioassays and chemical analysis to screen teethers and toys used to soothe a baby’s toothache for causative compounds.
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Significant endocrine activity was seen in two of 10 plastic teethers. The samples showed estrogenic and/or anti-androgenic activity due to methyl-, ethyl-, and propylparaben in one product, and due to at least six unidentified anti-androgenic compounds in the second product.
The study results support that plastic teethers can be a source of EDC exposure to infants. Manufacturers should re-evaluate the use of parabens in plastic teethers and toys due to its potential toxicity, researchers concluded.
For more information visit Wiley.com.
