Environmental Health in Israel | 2014

In addition to the above standards which specifically address chemical contaminants in consumer products, there are various standards which address labeling and packaging requirements for dangerous chemicals and cleaning products. There are also numerous standards relating to flame resistance of mattresses (including those for infants) and other products, such as couches, infant pajamas, and bed frames. While these standards do not explicitly require the use of flame retardant chemicals, the strict requirements for flame resistance de facto require the use of flame retardant chemicals. The flame resistance standard for infant mattresses is mandatory. The status of the flame resistance standard for mattresses other than infant mattresses is currently under debate. During 2010–2014, a number of these standards underwent revision, specifically with regard to chemicals contaminants:  The standard for toys was revised to require quantitative testing for phthalates and is undergoing revision to expand the number of tested metals and other compounds.  The standard for baby bottles and drinking containers was revised to require a declaration by the manufacturer that bisphenol A (BPA) was not used in the production of the bottle (in addition to quantitative testing of BPA). The revised standard has not yet been approved by the MoE.  The standards for lead and cadmium in ceramic-ware in contact with food was revised to include cookware with a ceramic coating and glass ware in contact with food, and are voluntary. Data on Chemicals in Consumer Products There are limited available data in Israel on chemicals in consumer products. In a survey on phthalate content of imported toys conducted at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, seven out of 40 samples purchased on the Israeli market did not comply with European standards. The phthalates most frequently detected at levels above the standard were DEHP and DINP. Data from the Standards Institution of Israel show that for up to 60% of tested polyvinyl chloride toys, the phthalate content exceeded that required by the Israeli standard. In addition, 10-15% of ceramic-ware tested for metals exceeded the standard; while for plastic containers in contact with food 10% exceeded the standard for total migration. Research on Exposure to Chemicals in Consumer Products  Researchers at Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and at Columbia University, NY are exploring predictors of exposure to phthalates and brominated flame retardants in pregnant women, including contact with consumer products.  Researchers at the MoH are exploring predictors of exposure to phthalates in the general population, including use of personal care products. - 55 - Chemicals in Consumer Products