Plasticizers

Bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate

Synthetic organic chemical primarily used to promote plasticity and flexibility in man-made materials, including polyvinyl chloride food packaging

Health Guideline Level (HGL)

64.9 ppb

Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science

Health Effects

Drinking water standards for DEHA have been developed based on potential liver and developmental toxicity, and non-specific effects (i.e. reduced body weight). Additional health protective benchmarks have been developed based on potential skeletal and kidney toxicity, as well as an increased risk of cancer. The EPA classifies DEHA as a possible human carcinogen.

Affected Organs & Systems:

Developmental
Kidneys
Skeletal
Carcinogens
Liver

Common Sources

  • Not naturally occurring, so its detection in the environment and source water is the result of human activity
  • The primary source of DEHA in the environment and drinking water sources is discharge from chemical factories and waste sites
  • May be released during its manufacture and transport, or during PVC blending and cutting operations
  • May also be released into the environment when consumers use and dispose of products containing it, or by leaching from PVC plumbing

How to Remove It

Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate:

Health Guideline Level

The HGL represents the maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest scientific research. It's often more protective than federal legal limits.

Contaminant Type

Bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate is classified as a Plasticizers contaminant.

This contaminant primarily affects the developmental, kidneys, and other systems.

Check Your Water

Find out if Bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate is in your tap water.

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