Quantification and risk assessment of phthalate leachate from single-use consumer plastics using solid phase microextraction gas chromatography/mass spectrometry

Phthalates (PAEs) are high-production synthetic compounds primarily used as plasticizers in plastic products to help with manufactured substance flexibility, pliability, and reduce environmental degradation. Phthalates have been detected in various manufactured goods ranging from food packaging to personal care products to water bottles. Unfortunately, recent studies have shown evidence of endocrine disruption and adverse effects on reproductive systems following PAE exposure in both males and females. This study aimed to quantify PAE residues that leached from polyethylene terephthalate bottles into drinking water over a 35-day period placed either in an indoor UV chamber or outside. Using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry coupled with direct immersion solid phase microextraction fibers, the highest total PAE concentration in bottles exposed indoors was 451 ± 366.5 µg/L with butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) concentrations being the highest individual concentration (297.6 ± 284.3 µg/L). In the outdoor exposure group, the highest total PAE concentration was 546.7 ± 217.5 µg/L, with BBP being at the highest concentration (395.4 ± 189.3 µg/L). A subsequent risk assessment was conducted quantifying the risk associated with adults consuming leachate found in bottled water in various countries across North America, Asia, and Europe. Using standard reference values and experimental values expressed here, it was found that there was no calculated risk associated with consuming this bottled water.