Voice of the Viewer: Toxic school supplies

Many of our viewers are weighing in after a recent Kane in your Corner investigation revealed that low levels of toxic chemicals can be found in some popular back-to-school items. Phthalates are chemicals

News 12 Staff

Aug 30, 2012, 1:31 AM

Updated 4,404 days ago

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Many of our viewers are weighing in after a recent Kane in your Corner investigation revealed that low levels of toxic chemicals can be found in some popular back-to-school items.
Phthalates are chemicals used to soften plastics. According to the Center for Health, Environment and Justice, low levels of these chemicals were found in 75 percent of school supplies they tested, including lunch bags and backpacks.
At high levels, these chemicals have been linked to reproductive birth defects and asthma. The chemicals are banned in toys, but because school supplies aren't considered toys, the same rules do not apply.
While some of you say the rules that govern phthalates in toys should extend to school supplies, others agree with the plastic industry, which insists the products are safe.
KIYC: Toxins found in children's school supplies