Phthalates in Breast Milk: Is Infant Exposure Increasing?

Your baby is being exposed to phthalates through breast milk, and we currently have zero safety guidance to tell us how much is too much. A 2026 pilot study published in Ecotoxicol Environ Saf found detectable levels of 14 phthalate metabolites and 3 DINCH metabolites in maternal milk samples.

Researchers identified concentrations reaching up to 16 µg/L in breast milk. Even more concerning is the finding that these chemicals can undergo extensive monoester formation during storage. This means the actual chemical load your infant receives could be higher than initial measurements suggest, yet there are no established guidance values for these levels despite their known status as endocrine disruptors.

You cannot control everything, but you can limit your daily intake of these chemicals to reduce your body burden. Start by ditching plastic food storage containers and swapping out personal care products that list fragrance as an ingredient, as these are common sources of phthalate exposure. We have curated a list of non-toxic baby alternatives that are rigorously tested to ensure you aren't bringing these endocrine disruptors into your nursery. Take the plastic out of your kitchen and your baby's routine today.

Source: Runkel AA, Rekar Ž, Kosirnik N, Mazej D, Horvat M (2026). Ecotoxicol Environ Saf.