STUDY: Some school supplies hiding dangerous chemicals
Shopping for school supplies. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Posted: 08/27/2012
Some back-to-school supplies may contain toxic chemicals, according to a new study from the Center for Health, Environment and Justice.
Researchers tested vinyl products, like lunch boxes, backpacks and three-ring binders for phthalates, which have been linked to asthma and birth defects. They found 75 percent of products they tested contained high levels of phthalates.
The level of phthalates is regulated in children's toys, but not necessarily banned in other products used primarily by children.
Many of the products tested in the study contained considerably higher levels than what is allowed in children's toys.
Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) was on hand for the announcement of the study's findings. He has urged the U.S. Senate to pass stricter rules for chemicals in children's products.
"They've been shown to be harmful. The fact that a product, a phthalate, could be banned in children's toys but is allowed in children's school supplies makes no sense," Sen. Schumer said.
You can see a list of the products tested, by clicking here .
Copyright 2012 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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