Are phthalates from plastic food containers linked to miscarriage?

What's actually in it

MCNP (mono-carboxynonyl phthalate) is a metabolite of a phthalate used in flexible plastic tubing, food packaging, and some medical devices. When you eat food that's been in contact with these plastics or use products containing phthalates, MCNP shows up in your urine.

The placenta is the organ that sustains a pregnancy. If phthalates interfere with how the placenta develops or functions, the consequences for pregnancy outcomes can be serious.

What the research says

A 2026 study in Reprod Toxicol examined phthalate mixtures and pregnancy loss. They found that MCNP exposure specifically was linked to placental dysfunction. Higher levels correlated with markers of placental damage and with pregnancy loss. The mechanism appears to involve inflammation and disruption of placental cell function.

This isn't the first study connecting phthalates to pregnancy complications. The research consistently shows that reducing plastic contact during pregnancy is a practical protective step.

Switch to glass food storage to cut your main dietary phthalate exposure. Store and heat food in glass, not plastic, especially during pregnancy.