Phthalates are a class of compounds most commonly used as softener for PVC packaging and products. In the food industry, phthalate compounds are most commonly used in plastic packaging materials. The most commonly used phthalate is DEHP. A study claims that normal exposure to phthalates could harm the genital development of unborn baby boys. Other animal studies on the toxicity of phthalates have raised questions about its possible effects on human health and sparked calls for further studies on the chemicals.

A Danish company, Danisco, has developed a biodegradable plasticizer derived from castor oil and acetic acid. It is a colourless, odourless and completely biodegradable plasticizer. The new plasticiser can be used for PVC food and beverage packaging without the need to modify equipment. In addition, it is considered safe to be used in food contact materials. The plasticiser can also be used in the production of flexible polyvinyl PVC for consumer products such as toys, bottle cap liners, floorings, teething rings, tubes, cling films, conveyor belts, and medical devices. Danisco is awaiting approval from the US Food and Drug Administration and from Japan's regulators.