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Published on 28 April 2025

Phthalates

Certain phthalic acid esters are classified as substances of very high concern because they are toxic to reproduction. Some of these also disrupt the endocrine system. Such phthalates face strict regulation.

Annex 1.17: Chemical Risk Reduction Ordinance (ORRChem)
- Substances listed in Annex XIV to the REACH Regulation

Annex 1.18: ORRChem
- Phthalates

1. Annex 1.17 ORRChem

In line with Annex XIV to the REACH Regulation, the following phthalates cannot be placed on the market or used. Further information is available on the page «Substances listed in Annex XIV to REACH»

  • dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
  • diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP)
  • dipentyl phthalate
  • diisopentyl phthalate
  • N-pentyl-isopentyl phthalate
  • branched and linear dipentyl ester of 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid
  • dihexyl phthalate
  • branched and linear dihexyl ester of 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid
  • bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)
  • 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, branched C6-8 dialkyl esters, C7-rich
  • 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, C6-10 dialkyl esters
  • 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, branched and linear C7-11 dialkyl esters
  • bis(2-methoxyethyl) phthalate
  • benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP)

2. Annex 1.18 ORRChem

Beyond the restrictions in Annex 1.17 ORRChem on marketing and using phthalates, articles containing the following phthalates cannot be marketed. These substances have reproductive toxicity and are known endocrine disruptors. This rule particularly affects articles made with plastics.

  • dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
  • Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP)
  • bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)
  • benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP)