Soft plastic children's toys commonly contain chemicals known as phthalates, which give the toys their soft texture. Animal tests and some human studies have linked phthalates to abnormal reproductive tracts, sperm damage and reduced testosterone.
This NPR-produced interactive expands on issues discussed in KQED's radio series. See how California, the United States and the European Union have moved toward removing phthalates from products.
Related: Chemicals at Home: Searching for Safe Alternatives