Butyl Benzyl Phthalate (BBP)

Why am I being warned about potential exposure to BBP?

BBP is on the Proposition 65 list because it can cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Exposure to BBP during pregnancy may affect the development of the child.
Proposition 65 requires businesses to determine if they must provide a warning about exposure to listed chemicals.

What is BBP?

BBP is an oily liquid that belongs to a family of chemicals called phthalates, which are added to some plastics to make them flexible.
BBP is used in various consumer products, including:
- Some vinyl flooring, sealants, and paints.
- Some handbags, belts, footwear and other artificial leather items that are made with polyvinyl chloride (commonly referred to as vinyl).
California law prohibits the manufacture, sale, or distribution of children’s toys and child care articles containing BBP at levels greater than 0.1%. Federal law has a similar prohibition.

How does exposure to BBP occur?

BBP can be gradually released from consumer products, and is found at low levels in indoor environments such as homes, schools, day care centers, and offices.
During pregnancy, BBP can pass from mother to baby.

How can I reduce my exposure to BBP?

Avoid plastics known as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or vinyl (with recycle code 3).
Minimize exposure to dust, which can contain BBP:
- Wash your hands and your child’s hands frequently, especially before preparing food, and before eating.
- Clean floors regularly, using a wet mop or a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, if possible.
- Wipe up dust regularly, using a damp cloth.

For more information:

Scientific Information on BBP

Proposition 65

California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA)
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
- Proposition 65: Background
- Proposition 65: The List of Chemicals
- Proposition 65: Fact Sheets

Posted August 2017

Fact Sheet - Butyl Benzyl Phthalate (BBP)

References

Chemical