Phthalates are a group of chemicals used primarily in the consumer product industry. One of their main uses is as a softener in PVC plastic production for a wide range of productseverything from toys to footwear. They are also used in cosmetics, perfume and pharmaceutical packaging. When used in PVC production, phthalates do not chemically bind to the PVC, but tend to evaporate into the air and leach into water and soil over time. In this way, humans and other living organisims are exposed to these toxic phthalates through direct contact with contaminated food, water and air. Therefore, some phthalate compounds are classified as toxic to reproduction and can cause reduced fertility and/or potential harm to the unborn child.