Phthalates, commonly used as plasticizers in PVC and other plastics, are known to be released into the environment and have been detected ubiquitously in various environmental matrices. The State Agency for Nature, Environment, and Consumer Protection of North Rhine-Westphalia (LANUV) detected MnHexP in urine samples from children, indicating a potential exposure to phthalates. This substance identified as a metabolite of various phthalates or directly absorbed as hexyl hydrogen phthalate.

It poses a risk due to its reproductive toxicity, moreover it could potentially increase the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity.

The LANUV conducted follow-up analyses on urine samples collected as part of human biomonitoring studies and found a significant increase in MnHexP detection and concentration in recent samples compared to previous ones. Similarly, the German Federal Environment Agency (UBA) detected MnHexP in a considerable portion of adult urine samples, highlighting the widespread exposure to this compound across different age groups. Despite these findings, the specific sources of MnHexP remain unknown, posing challenges for regulatory agencies in identifying and addressing potential exposure pathways.

Although di-n-hexyl phthalate, a possible precursor of MnHexP, was examined in foodstuffs and found to be below detection limits, other precursors may still contribute to MnHexP levels in urine samples. In response to these findings, regulatory measures under the REACH Regulation and the CLP Regulation are being considered. Some phthalates, including those identified as potential precursors of MnHexP, are classified as toxic for reproduction and subject to authorization or restriction under EU chemicals legislation. Efforts are underway to restrict the use of these substances and replace them with less hazardous alternatives. However, regulatory actions are still pending, and further investigations are needed to fully understand the risks associated with MnHexP exposure. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed measures to address the presence of MnHexP in urine samples, including investigating the composition of registered ortho-phthalates with medium chain length substituents and addressing phthalates that can release MnHexP as part of the European PARC initiative. This collaborative effort aims to assess the risks posed by chemicals and develop strategies to mitigate these risks.

In conclusion, the detection of MnHexP in urine samples highlights the need for comprehensive risk assessment and management strategies to protect human health and the environment from the harmful effects of phthalates. Regulatory agencies, scientific organizations, and industry stakeholders must work together to identify and address sources of exposure and promote the use of safer alternatives.