Screening of diesters of ortho-phthalic acid in printed baby bibs in the European market

A screening exercise targeting ortho-phthalates in 22 plastic baby bibs collected in the European market was performed. A GC-MS method was used with a limit of detection ranging from 0.1 to 0.6 mg kg(-1) bib. The most frequently detected phthalates were di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) in nearly all samples. DIBP was detected at concentrations suggesting its intended use. Overall, the highest levels were detected for benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), with six samples presenting concentration from 13 to 47 mg kg(-1) and one sample with the highest value of 65 mg kg(-1). Results indicate that several non-authorised phthalates are intentionally used either in the plastic or in the printing inks. Worst case migration calculations indicate that diethyl phthalate (DEP), DAP and DIBP exceed the limit of 0.01 mg kg(-1). Therefore, determination of experimental migration is needed to conclude on compliance of baby bibs with the European and Swiss legislation. Bibs are articles that fall in the scope of the definition of FCMs accordingly to European legislation. Therefore, they should comply with the applicable rules, restrictions and limits. These articles should be included in surveillance plans, focusing on monitoring bib composition, migration and the application of good manufacturing practices by industry.