How safe is your sex toy?

Is nothing sacred? A new report released today by our Dutch office reveals that the plastics used to construct a wide range of sex toys contain very high concentrations of hazardous phlalates, toxic chemical softeners used in PVC to make it soft and flexible.

Greenpeace Netherlands asked research organization TNO to test eight different sex toys, including dildos and vibrators, for phthalates. Worryingly, seven out of eight contained phthalates in concentrations varying from 24 to 51 percent. Remember, these are chemicals which do not easily biodegrade and can be dangerous - even in small amounts.

The research was commissioned after Durex's 2005 Global Sex Survey revealed that three million Dutch people admit to owning a sex toy. Over a million are sold there every year, making the market worth 22 million Euros.

Greenpeace has been opposing the use of phthalates for over three years, after research into children's toys and teething rings showed that the chemicals could be ingested through direct exposure to sensitive tissue, such as that found inside the mouth. In 2005 the EU banned the use of the phthalate DEHP in children's toys because of its damaging effect on young children, forcing toy manufacturers to develop alternatives. It is shocking to find them still used in sex toys, also made for internal use.

According to Toxic campaigner Bart van Opzeeland 'It's incredible that this substance can still be used in toys for adults. The last few years we've tested a lot of products but never before did we find such high concentrations.' Read on >>