The latest CSE study found high levels of phthalates, a chemical used to soften plastic, in all samples of children

Phthalates are chemicals used in toys to soften plastic. Exposure to them can lead to a wide range of health disorders. They are especially dangerous for children under three years, who tend to put these toys in their mouth. CSE lab tests found phthalates in all samples of toys tested -- over 45 per cent exceeded the internationally accepted safe limit.

Phthalates are chemicals used in toys to soften plastic. Exposure to them can lead to a wide range of health disorders. They are especially dangerous for children under three years, who tend to put these toys in their mouth. India has no regulations to control use of phthalates in toys. It only has voluntary standards covering safety aspects of toys.

Phthalates are chemicals used in toys to soften plastic. Exposure to them can lead to a wide range of health disorders. They are especially dangerous for children under three years, who tend to put these toys in their mouth.

Delhi NGO Centre for Science and Environment tested 24 toy samples of major brands for the presence of phthalates. In October 2008, it randomly purchased toy samples from markets in Delhi. Fifteen were soft toys and nine hard toys made in four countries.