Investigation and Quantification of Phthalate Esters in Packaged Milk: A Study in Türkiye

The aim of this study was to explore the concentrations of PAEs (Phthalate esters) in milk in Türkiye. For this purpose, a methodology was developed to quantify eight different PAEs in milk samples using a combination of dispersive solid-phase extraction (dSPE) and Liquid Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Employing this methodology, the concentrations of PAEs were evaluated in 34 milk samples. Results indicated the presence of PAEs in the milk samples; however, all tested compounds remained within the specific migration limits established by the EU. Among the analyzed PAEs, BBP (Benzyl butyl phthalate) was not detected in any samples, while DMP (di-methyl phthalate) (ND-5.51 µg/L) and DBP (di-butyl phthalate) (ND-7.91 µg/L) exhibited the lowest concentrations. DEHP (bis(2-ethylhexyl)) was identified as the most prevalent plasticizer with a maximum concentration of 41.31 µg/L. In conclusion, this study successfully investigated PAE concentrations in Turkish milk samples using a developed methodology. The results indicated the presence of PAEs within EU-established limits, with DEHP being the predominant plasticizer. Further research and monitoring efforts are crucial to ensure ongoing safety in packaged milk products.