Why am I being warned about potential exposure to DINP?
- DINP is on the Proposition 65 list because it can cause cancer.
- Exposure to DINP may increase the risk of cancer.
- Proposition 65 requires businesses to determine if they must provide a warning about exposures to listed chemicals.
What is DINP?
- DINP belongs to a family of chemicals called phthalates, which are added to some plastics to make them flexible. DINP is one of the phthalates most frequently used in plastic products.
- DINP is used in various types of plastic consumer products, including:
- Some polyvinyl chloride (PVC, vinyl) flooring, materials used in automobile interiors, wire and cable insulation, gloves, tubing, garden hoses, and shoes.
- DINP is also used in some non-PVC products, such as some inks and pigments, adhesives, sealants, paints and lacquers.
- California law prohibits the manufacture, sale, or distribution of toys and child care articles intended for the use of a child under 3 years old if that product can be placed in the child’s mouth and it contains DINP at levels greater than 0.1%. Federal law has a similar prohibition.
How does exposure to DINP occur?
- DINP can be gradually released from consumer products into indoor environments such as homes, schools, daycare centers, offices and cars. It settles on floors and other surfaces, and can accumulate in dust and air.
- Exposure can result from contact with products containing DINP.
- Low levels of DINP have been detected in some foods that have been in contact with plastics during processing and packaging.
- During pregnancy, DINP can pass from mother to baby.
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How can I reduce my exposure to DINP?
- Avoid plastics known as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or vinyl (with recycle code 3).
- Minimize exposure to dust, which can contain DINP:
- Wash your hands and your child’s hands frequently, especially before preparing food, and before eating.
- Clean floors regularly, using a wet mop or a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, if possible.
- Wipe up dust regularly, using a damp cloth.
- Eat more fresh food, and less processed and packaged food.
For more information:
Scientific Information on DINP
- US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA)
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
Proposition 65
- California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA)
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)- Proposition 65: Background
- Proposition 65: The List of Chemicals
- Proposition 65: Fact Sheets
