Analysis Shows Drinking Glasses and Childrens' Shoes Contain Dangerous Toxics

IPEN Participating Organization Arnika, based in the Czech Republic, recently found concentrations of toxic substances in several samples of commonly available summer shoes and drinking glasses. Chemical analysis was commissioned of footwear and printed glasses, and DEHP and DiBP, which are phthalates especially hazardous for human hormonal and reproductive systems, were found in the shoes, as well as lead. Children's shoes specifically were tested, because children are particularly vulnerable to the hazards of phthalates and heavy metals. About two thirds of the drinking glasses contained high concentrations of lead and cadmium.

Czech reports and English summaries, including tables listing the percentage of chemicals found and the brands tested, can be found on Arnika's website (Czech / English).