IARC Monographic on the Identification of Carcinogenic Hazards to Humans

On 3 July 2026, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified three phthalates, BBP, DBP and DINP, as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). The full findings will appear in Volume 142 of the IARC Monographs in 2027. IARC classifications describe hazard, not risk, and do not change the regulatory status of these substances in the EU.

In our statement we explain what the classification means, set out the current regulatory context for each substance and describe how the sector will stay involved in the process.

Please find the full statement below.