Phthalates in selected foods – April 1, 2012, to March 31, 2018

Abstract

This targeted survey generated baseline surveillance data regarding phthalate levels in selected foods on the Canadian retail market. A total of 4517 domestic and imported samples of different types of foods were collected and tested for the presence of 6 phthalates. Of these samples, 3540 (78%) did not contain detectable levels of phthalates. The total phthalate levels ranged from 0.26 parts per million (ppm) to 2608 ppm. There are no regulations in Canada for phthalate levels in food. All levels of phthalate found in the products tested in this survey were evaluated by Health Canada and deemed safe for consumption by Canadians.