Recent advances in analysis of phthalate esters in foods

Phthalate esters (PAEs) are widely used as plasticizers in food processing and packaging. Because of a growing international concern about the health effects of PAEs, the analysis of these compounds in various foods was one focus of research in recent years. This review provides an updated overview of recent advances in sample-preparation and determination methods for analysis of PAEs in foods. We discuss contamination problems, current challenges and future trends in the analysis of PAEs in foods.