Analysis and probability health risk assessment of phthalate acid esters (PAEs) in ice cream and cream samples consumed in Tehran, Iran

In this research, the MSPE-GC/MS method was applied to measure the concentrations of six PAEs (phthalate acid esters) in ice cream and cream samples, and a risk assessment was also performed using the MCS method. The mean concentrations of ∑PAEs and DEHP (in all samples) were 7.082 ± 2.845 and 2.067 ± 0.629 µg/L, respectively (that were below the standard levels). The carcinogenic risk’s results for DEHP revealed no carcinogenic effects were posed by the consumption of ice cream (7.78 × 10−6) and cream (1.16 × 10−5) for adults, while there was a negligible risk for children by the consumption of ice cream (1.09 × 10−4) and cream (1.62 × 10−4). The findings revealed the total noncarcinogenic risk (TTHQ) of PAE compounds for adults and children was <1. While the current study demonstrates the levels of PAEs in samples are within safe limits according to existing standards, it is crucial to recognize the broader implications of PAE exposure in food products.